: the country where you were born or where your family came from
—usually singular
Although she had lived in America for many years, she still spoke the language of her motherland.
—often used with theThe whole family wanted to return to the motherland.
Note: Motherland can refer to any country, but it is often associated especially with Russia.
Cite this Entry
“Motherland.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/motherland. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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