Nationhood: meaning, definitions and examples

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nationhood

 

[ ˈneɪʃənhʊd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

political identity

Nationhood refers to the status of being a distinct nation, characterized by shared identity, culture, language, and often a common government. It signifies a sense of belonging to a particular nation and the collective identity of its members. Nationhood can evoke strong feelings of patriotism and pride among its citizens.

Synonyms

national identity, nationalism, sovereignty

Examples of usage

  • The struggle for nationhood was central to the independence movement.
  • Nationhood encompasses the shared history and traditions of a people.
  • Civic education reinforces a sense of nationhood among residents.

Translations

Translations of the word "nationhood" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nacionalidade

🇮🇳 राष्ट्रीयता

🇩🇪 Nationale

🇮🇩 kenegaraan

🇺🇦 національність

🇵🇱 narodowość

🇯🇵 国民性

🇫🇷 nationalité

🇪🇸 nacionalidad

🇹🇷 milliyet

🇰🇷 국민성

🇸🇦 الهوية الوطنية

🇨🇿 národnost

🇸🇰 národnosť

🇨🇳 民族性

🇸🇮 nacionalnost

🇮🇸 þjóðerni

🇰🇿 ұлттық

🇬🇪 ეროვნულობა

🇦🇿 milliyyət

🇲🇽 nacionalidad

Word origin

The term 'nationhood' emerged in the late 19th to early 20th centuries as a response to the growing awareness of national identities and the movements for self-determination across Europe and the world. 'Nation' itself has roots tracing back to the Latin word 'natio', which referred to birth, race, or stock, and was used to denote people united by common ancestry. The concept of nationhood evolved over time, particularly influenced by the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, which marked the end of religious wars in Europe and established the principles of territorial sovereignty and political legitimacy. During the 19th century, with the rise of nationalism, the term gained popularity as people sought to form or maintain independent nation-states, often accentuating cultural, linguistic, and historical ties. Nationhood, therefore, not only defines a political entity but also embodies the emotional and cultural connection individuals have with their nation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,276, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.