nation-state

noun

na·​tion-state ˈnā-shən-ˈstāt How to pronounce nation-state (audio)
-ˌstāt
: 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

Examples of nation-state 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.
This coalition was established in 2001 around the China-Russia axis to create cohesion and coordination among broadly congenial nation-states. Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 2 Sep. 2025 From ransomware attacks that can cripple supply chains to sophisticated nation-state campaigns targeting critical infrastructure, the threats facing companies today are pervasive, costly, and constantly evolving. Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025 As this summer’s protesters understood, Ukraine is not only fighting for its future as a nation-state. Nataliya Gumenyuk, Foreign Affairs, 29 Aug. 2025 The house, in this case, is both the physical space where this confrontation takes place as well as the broader nation-state. Lovia Gyarkye, IndieWire, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nation-state

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nation-state was in 1895

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nation-state.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nation-state. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on nation-state

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!