Fatherland Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
fatherland
[หfษหรฐษrlรฆnd ]
Definitions
patriotic
One's native country; the country of one's ancestors.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fatherland |
This word is often used in formal or nationalistic contexts to refer to the country of one's ancestors or birth. It conveys a sense of pride and duty towards the nation. It is more common in European languages and can have a militaristic or historical tone.
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| homeland |
This term is neutral and widely used in everyday language to refer to the native country of an individual. It is often used in discussions about nationality, immigration, or cultural heritage.
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| motherland |
This word carries a sentimental and emotional tone, often evoking the idea of a nurturing and caring nation. It is frequently used in literary or poetic contexts, and sometimes in political speeches that aim to invoke strong patriotic feelings.
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Examples of usage
- Many soldiers fought bravely to defend their fatherland.
- She felt a deep connection to her fatherland, despite living abroad.
historical
A person's native land or homeland.
Synonyms
home country, native land.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fatherland |
This term is often used in a patriotic or nationalistic context, referring to one's country of birth or nationality. It carries an emotional and sometimes solemn tone.
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| native land |
This term is typically used in a poetic or literary context, highlighting a deep and often nostalgic connection to the country of origin. It evokes strong emotional feelings and can be used to emphasize one's roots.
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| home country |
This phrase is often used in a more straightforward and neutral way to describe the country where someone was born or holds citizenship. It is suitable for informal conversation and factual statements.
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Examples of usage
- The poet expressed his love for his fatherland in his works.
- The concept of fatherland has different meanings in different cultures.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the concept invokes strong feelings of national pride and identity, sometimes leading to patriotic expressions.
- The term is often used in political contexts to evoke loyalty and unity among citizens, especially during national celebrations.
Historical Context
- The concept has been used throughout history to stir emotions during wars, where soldiers fight for their 'fatherland'.
- Nazi Germany infamously used the term to promote nationalism and loyalty to the state, impacting how it's viewed today.
Literature
- The term appears in various literary works, often symbolizing the bond between people and their homeland.
- Writers frequently explore themes of longing for the homeland and the emotional ties it creates in exiled characters.
Psychology
- Psychologically, identifying with one's fatherland can enhance feelings of belonging and social cohesion among individuals.
- Studies show that strong attachments to one's country can influence behavior, such as community participation and civic duties.
Origin of 'fatherland'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle English and Old High German, where 'vater' means father and 'land' means land.
- Historically, it has been used to express a deep emotional connection one feels towards their native country.
The term 'fatherland' dates back to the 16th century and is derived from the Old English words 'fรฆder' (father) and 'land' (land). It is often used in a patriotic or emotional context to refer to one's native country or homeland, symbolizing a sense of belonging and identity.
See also: fatherhood, fathering, fatherly, forefathers.