National

Definition

National is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it refers to something related to or characteristic of a nation or country. As a noun, it denotes a person who is a citizen or subject of a specific nation.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnæʃ.ən.əl/, /ˈnæʃ.nəl/
• Respelling: NASH-uh-nuhl, NASH-nuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnæʃ.ən.əl/, /ˈnæʃ.nəl/
• Respelling: NASH-uh-nuhl, NASH-nuhl

Etymology

The word "national" originates from the Latin "natio," meaning "birth" or "nation," which derives from "nasci," meaning "to be born." It entered Middle English in the 14th century via Old French as "nacionel," later becoming "national."

Derivatives

• Nationality (noun)
• Nationalize (verb)
• Nationalism (noun)
• Nationalist (noun/adjective)
• Nationwide (adjective/adverb)

Synonyms

• Domestic
• Statewide
• Patriotic

Antonyms

• International
• Global
• None

Usage

The term "national" is commonly used to refer to matters relating to a country or its citizens. For example, "The national anthem is played at the start of the game" (adjective) or "He is a French national" (noun).

Related Terms

• Nation: A large community of people associated with a specific territory.
• Government: The administrative body of a nation.
• Citizenship: The status of being a member of a nation.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to or characteristic of a nation: Describes something pertaining to a specific country.
  • Example: "The national flag was raised during the ceremony."
• Nationwide in scope: Refers to something covering or affecting the entire country.
  • Example: "The new law will have a national impact."

Noun

• A citizen or subject of a particular nation: Refers to an individual recognized as belonging to a nation.
  • Example: "The embassy provides services to its nationals abroad."