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.
They were offered a path to a green card reserved for young immigrants who experienced abuse or abandonment in their countries of origin. Daniella Silva, NBC news, 17 Mar. 2026 But petition approval is just one part of the process for receiving a green card. Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 16 Mar. 2026 The federal government has accused Bien-Amie of spinning a decades-long web of deceit involving multiple identities — and wives — to gain a green card and later American citizenship. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2026 Federal officials later filed a notice of appeal of the ruling, and the administration continued pursuing possible deportation based on allegations that Khalil misrepresented information on his green card application. Faith Bugenhagen, Austin American Statesman, 13 Mar. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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!

More from Merriam-Webster