Definition of state
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: mode or condition of being
a state of readiness
b(1)
: condition of mind or temperament
in a highly nervous state
(2)
: a condition of abnormal tension or excitement
2a
: a condition or stage in the physical being of something
insects in the larval state the gaseous state of water
b
: any of various conditions characterized by definite quantities (as of energy, angular momentum, or magnetic moment) in which an atomic system may exist
3a
: social position
especially
: high rank
b(1)
: elaborate or luxurious style of living
(2)
: formal dignity : pomp
—usually used with in
4a
: a body of persons constituting a special class in a society : estate sense 3
b
states plural
: the members or representatives of the governing classes assembled in a legislative body
c
obsolete
: a person of high rank (as a noble)
5a
: a politically organized body of people usually occupying a definite territory
especially
: one that is sovereign
b
: the political organization of such a body of people
c
: a government or politically organized society having a particular character
a police state the welfare state
6
: the operations or concerns of the government of a country
7a
: one of the constituent units of a nation having a federal government
the fifty states
b
States plural
: The United States of America
8
: the territory of a state
state
verb
stated; stating
Definition of state (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: to set by regulation or authority
Test Your Vocabulary
Odd Habits and Quirks
-
- Which of the following best describes an easily irritated person?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share state
Time Traveler for state
The first known use of state was in the 13th century
See more words from the same century