nationality

[ nash-uh-nal-i-tee ]

noun

, plural na·tion·al·i·ties

1. the status of belonging to a particular nation, whether by birth or naturalization:

   the nationality of an immigrant.

2. the relationship of property, holdings, etc., to a particular nation, or to one or more of its members:

   the nationality of a ship.

3. nationalism.
4. existence as a distinct nation; national independence:

   a small colony that has just achieved nationality.

5. a nation or people:

   the nationalities of the Americas.

6. a national quality or character:

   Nationalities tend to submerge and disappear in a metropolis.

nationality

/ ˌnæʃəˈnælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or fact of being a citizen of a particular nation
2. a body of people sharing common descent, history, language, etc; a nation
3. a national group

   30 different nationalities are found in this city

4. national character or quality
5. the state or fact of being a nation; national status

Word History and Origins

Origin of nationality¹

First recorded in 1685–95; national + -ity

Example Sentences

“There’s a whole cosmopolitan mix of different nationalities now. We are all New Zealanders. I think we should work together and have equal rights.”

From BBC

The FA said this constituted an "aggravated breach... as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin".

From BBC

After the furore in South Africa, and the doubts about her nationality, she competed in the Miss Nigeria competition, which she won to qualify for the Miss Universe contest held in Mexico City.

From BBC

Coote used Klopp’s German nationality to preface one of his comments and FA rules state nationality is one of the references that can lead to an aggravated breach of its rules.

From BBC

In 2020 the author moved to Paris, “exiled by the force of things”, and took French nationality.

From BBC

Related Words

• citizenship
• community
• ethnic group
• origin
• society