# repatriation

/ɹiˌpeɪtɹiˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɹɪpˌætɹɪˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/repatriation
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

the act of sending someone back to their own country. It also refers to sending money or objects back to their place of origin.

For teachers: the process of returning a person, voluntarily or forcibly, to their country of origin or citizenship. Often refers to the return of refugees, prisoners of war, or cultural artifacts.

## Examples

- The government organized the repatriation of the refugees.
- After the conflict ended, the international community assisted in the voluntary repatriation of thousands of displaced families.
- The museum is currently negotiating the repatriation of several bronze statues that were removed from their original site during the colonial era.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to specific programs or instances.

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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.