# statehood

/ˈsteɪtˌhʊd/ (US) · /stˈeɪthʊd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

the condition of being an independent country or an official part of a larger nation like the United States. It means having your own government and legal rights as a state.

For teachers: the status of being a recognized independent nation or a constituent political unit of a federal union. Refers to the legal and political standing that confers sovereignty or specific constitutional rights.

## Examples

- The territory is currently campaigning for full statehood.
- After years of being a colony, the island finally achieved statehood and gained the right to vote in national elections.
- The transition to statehood required the drafting of a new constitution and the formal recognition of its borders by neighboring sovereign powers.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in political or legal contexts; often follows verbs like 'achieve', 'grant', or 'seek'.

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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.