# State

/ˈsteɪt/ (US) · /stˈeɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/state
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the condition that someone or something is in at a specific time. It can also mean a country or a part of a country with its own government.

For teachers: the particular condition that someone or something is in at a specific time; alternatively, a nation or territory considered as an organized political community under one government.

## Examples

- The old car is in a very poor state.
- The water changes from a liquid to a solid state when the temperature drops below freezing.
- The philosopher argued that the individual's rights must be protected against the overwhelming power of the state to ensure a functioning democracy.

## Usage notes

- Countable when referring to political entities or specific conditions; often uncountable when used in abstract phrases like 'state of mind'.

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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.