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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the same day her application was denied, Shokri Varniab matched into a six-year diagnostic radiology research track residency — two years after first applying for the green card. Michal Ruprecht, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2026 The government is now moving to strip them of their green cards and ultimately deport them, DHS said. Kiki Intarasuwan, CBS News, 4 Apr. 2026 Soleimani Afshar became a green card holder in 2021 under the Biden administration, Bis said. Los Angeles Times, 4 Apr. 2026 Estrada Juarez had lived in California for 27 years and was detained at her green card appointment in downtown Sacramento. Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for green card

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

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Cite this Entry

“Green card.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/green%20card. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.

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

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