Nation

Definition

Nation is a noun. It refers to a large group of people united by common descent, history, culture, or language, inhabiting a particular territory. It can also denote a sovereign state or political entity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈneɪ.ʃən/
• Respelling: NAY-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈneɪ.ʃən/
• Respelling: NAY-shuhn

Etymology

The word "nation" comes from the Latin "natio," meaning "birth" or "tribe," derived from "nasci," meaning "to be born." The term evolved through Old French "nacion" into Middle English, maintaining its sense of a group of people with shared characteristics.

Derivatives

• National (adjective)
• Nationality (noun)
• Nationalism (noun)
• Nationalist (noun/adjective)
• Nationhood (noun)

Synonyms

• Country
• State
• Realm

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "nation" is used to refer to a political or cultural unit of people. For example, "The nation celebrated its independence day," or "The United Nations consists of multiple member nations."

Related Terms

• State: A politically organized territory.
• People: A collective term for individuals within a nation.
• Sovereignty: The authority of a nation to govern itself.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large group of people with shared culture, language, or descent:
  • Example: "The Cherokee people are recognized as a distinct nation."
• A political entity or sovereign state:
  • Example: "Canada is a prosperous nation with diverse cultures."
• The people of a particular country or region:
  • Example: "The nation united in times of crisis."