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.
Let nation-states race to build narrow AIs for drug discovery, or drone warfare. Jason Hausenloy, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 2025 Across the world, cities are stepping into leadership roles once reserved for nation-states. John Eger, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 July 2025 After all, how could the republic be anti-Jewish if Jews felt safe enough to live there? Jewish survival within the world’s most overtly anti-Zionist nation-state reveals how keenly aware Tehran is of what sways global public opinion. Roya Hakakian, The Atlantic, 10 July 2025 Experts warn that nation-state actors like China, Iran, Russia and North Korea are observing, learning and potentially preparing to strike. Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 6 July 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

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Cite this Entry

“Nation-state.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nation-state. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

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