nation-state

noun na·tion-state \ ˈnā-shən-ˈstāt , -ˌstāt \

Definition of nation-state

: 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

See nation-state defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of nation-state

1895

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism

NATION-STATE Defined for English Language Learners

nation-state

noun

Definition of nation-state for English Language Learners

: a form of political organization in which a group of people who share the same history, traditions, or language live in a particular area under one government