nation-state

noun

na·​tion-state ˈnā-shən-ˈstāt How to pronounce nation-state (audio)
-ˌstāt
Synonyms of nation-statenext
: 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.
Ternus’ hard technical skills may not translate easily to a position that involves toggling from Hollywood to stockholders, to politicians shaping policy, to rival CEOs in the constellation of tech companies whose power challenges nation-states. — Andrew R. Chow, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 Another possibility is a nation-state or other international actor aiming to create a continent-wide disruption. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 14 Oct. 2026 Its security program is designed to address risks involving employees, cybercriminals and nation-state actors, the company said. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 13 Oct. 2026 Camilla Townsend, Fifth Sun The period of the pre-modern, pre-nation-state world didn’t just happen in Europe of course. — James Folta, Literary Hub, 5 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for nation-state

See All Rhymes for nation-state

Browse Nearby Words

nationless
nation-state
nationwide
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nation-state.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nation-state. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on nation-state

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for nation-state

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nation-state

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