nation-state

noun

na·​tion-state ˈnā-shən-ˈstāt 

-ˌstāt

: a form of political organization under which a relatively homogeneous people inhabits a sovereign state

especially : a state containing one as opposed to several nationalities

Examples of nation-state in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The modern Zionist political movement began in the late 19th century and gave political expression to our connection to the land of Israel in a modern world shaped by nation-states. —Elad Strohmayer, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026

Jewish peoplehood, communal autonomy, and distinct national or ethnic consciousness were to dissolve into the universalist framework of the emerging nation-state. —Kenneth L. Marcus, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026

The able-bodied white male stood for the virility of the New Deal nation-state. —John P. Murphy, ARTnews.com, 5 Apr. 2026

Originating in English common law, jus soli serves as the basis for citizenship in nearly every nation-state in the Western Hemisphere. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nation-state

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• adsorbate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate