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nation

n.
US //ˈneɪʃən// UK //nˈeɪʃən// na·tion
  1. 1 a people or country (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a large group of people who share a history, language, or culture, usually living under one government.

    a stable community of people formed on the basis of a common language, territory, history, or ethnicity, often manifesting in a sovereign state.

    Example

    The president addressed the nation on television to explain the new laws.

    Example

    The treaty was designed to foster cooperation between the two nations after decades of border disputes and economic competition.
  2. 2 Indigenous people (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Law

    a group of Indigenous people, especially in North America, who have their own government or territory.

    a community of Indigenous people, particularly in North America, recognized as a distinct political or ethnic entity with specific rights or territory.

    Example

    The Navajo Nation has its own judicial system and government offices.

    Example

    The legislation recognizes the inherent sovereignty of the First Nations to manage their natural resources and educational programs.
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  1. 3 a large group (n.)
    C1 Advanced Humorous Informal

    a very large number of people who share a specific interest or job.

    a large collective of people associated by a common interest, profession, or characteristic.

    Example

    The entire nation of dog lovers seemed to be at the park that morning.

    Example

    The author's latest novel was eagerly anticipated by the vast nation of fantasy enthusiasts worldwide.
Etymology 1

From Middle English nacioun, nacion, from Old French nacion, from Latin nātiōnem, accusative of nātiō (“nation”). Displaced native Old English þēod.

Etymology 2

Short for damnation or tarnation.

Word family

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