citizenship

noun

cit·​i·​zen·​ship ˈsi-tə-zən-ˌship 

 also  -sən-

1

: the status of being a citizen

He was granted U.S. citizenship.

2

a

: membership in a community (such as a college)

b

: the quality of an individual's response to membership in a community

The students are learning the value of good citizenship.

Examples of citizenship in a Sentence

She applied for Polish citizenship.

He was granted U.S. citizenship.

The students are learning the value of good citizenship.

Recent Examples on the Web

Shared fears for their families and their future in America bind the pair (Sylvia was born to undocumented parents while Beba waits for her citizenship application), yet these anxieties don’t define them or their connection. —David Opie, IndieWire, 21 June 2024

This in turn will clear the path for applications for permanent residence and, eventually, citizenship. —New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 20 June 2024

The new process could put many of them on a path for U.S. citizenship in a few years. —Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 18 June 2024

After three years as permanent residents, spouses may apply for U.S. citizenship. —Cleve R. Wootson Jr., Washington Post, 18 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

see citizen

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing citizenship

• dual citizenship

Kids Definition

citizenship

noun

cit·​i·​zen·​ship ˈsit-ə-zən-ship 

1

: possession of the rights and privileges of a citizen

2

: the quality of a person's response to membership in a community

Legal Definition

citizenship

noun

cit·​i·​zen·​ship

1

: the status of being a citizen

2

: the quality of an individual's behavior as a citizen

3

: domicile

—used especially in federal diversity cases see also diversity jurisdiction at jurisdiction