city-state

noun

ˈsi-tē-ˌstāt 

also -ˈstāt

: an autonomous state consisting of a city and surrounding territory

Examples of city-state in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Debating literary currency The scheme has sparked debate in the affluent city-state over whether cash can truly cultivate a lifelong love for books. — Kathleen Magramo, CNN Money, 15 Sep. 2026

By the later Middle Ages, Italian city-states such as Venice and Genoa were major European trading centers, importing goods from the eastern Mediterranean and distributing them to markets across Europe. — Laura Payne, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Sep. 2026

Amina Formidable Queen Amina ruled the Hausa city-state of Zazzau (now in Nigeria) in the 16th century. — Liz Regalia, Parents, 9 Sep. 2026

This story covers a range of topics, including mall redevelopment, mansion sales, unaffordable housing and city-state litigation. — Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for city-state

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

Kids Definition

city-state

noun

ˈsit-ē-ˈstāt, 

-ˌstāt

: a self-governing state consisting of a city and surrounding territory