# compatriot

/kəmˈpeɪtɹiət/ (US) · /kəmpˈætɹɪət/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/compatriot
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a person who comes from the same country as you. You use this word when you want to be more formal or polite than just saying 'friend' or 'person'.

For teachers: a person who shares the same country of origin or citizenship with another. Often used in formal or diplomatic contexts to establish a shared national identity.

## Examples

- The two athletes are proud compatriots.
- After winning the championship, the player thanked her compatriot for the support during the final match.
- The diplomat spent the evening in conversation with a fellow compatriot, discussing the recent changes in their nation's foreign policy and the potential for future collaboration.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.