green card

noun

: an identity card attesting the permanent resident status of an alien in the U.S.
green-carder noun

Examples of green card in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Under the current system, undocumented immigrants in the U.S. who apply for a green card may be required to return to their home country while their application is processed from a U.S. embassy or consulate. Chris Mueller, USA TODAY, 9 July 2024 Give them green cards and information about becoming citizens. Washington Post, 5 July 2024 Initial green card processes are notorious for lengthy delays, often adhered to a 10-year parole period that applicants must serve outside of the U.S. Erick Trevino, The Arizona Republic, 24 June 2024 Under this program, a deluge of illegals will be given immediate green cards and put on the fast track to rapid citizenship. ABC News, 23 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for green card 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'green card.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

from the fact that it was formerly colored green

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of green card was in 1956

Dictionary Entries Near green card

Cite this Entry

“Green card.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/green%20card. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.

Legal Definition

green card

noun
: an identity card attesting the permanent resident status of an alien in the U.S.
Etymology

from the fact that it was formerly colored green

More from Merriam-Webster on green card

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!