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Definition of citizenship

citizenship

/ˈsɪt.ə.zən.ʃɪp/
cit · i · zen · ship
Plural:citizenships
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citizenship Lexical Profile

citizenship Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The legal status of being a recognized member of a sovereign state or nation, carrying specific rights, privileges, and duties.

Example

"After living and working in the country for five years, she finally applied for dual citizenship."

2

The quality of an individual's conduct, engagement, and responsibility as a member of a community or society.

Example

"The school presents an annual award to students who demonstrate outstanding civic responsibility and good citizenship."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for citizenship
Antonyms
View all antonyms for citizenship

Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably in casual speech, 'citizenship' denotes a formal legal status granting full political rights and responsibilities within a state, whereas 'nationality' refers to the legal bond or ethnic affiliation tying an individual to a nation.

• Rhymes for citizenship

• Nearby Words

citified
citizen
citizenry
citizenship
citrange
citric
citrine

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from 'citizen' (derived via Anglo-French 'citezein' from Latin 'civitas', meaning 'city' or 'body of citizens') plus the native English suffix '-ship' (from Old English '-scipe', denoting condition or status).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Citizenship. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/citizenship
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