Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Repatriating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ 
Add to dictionary

repatriating

[หŒrษ›pษ™หˆtreษชสƒษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

returning home

Repatriating refers to the process of returning someone to their homeland or country of origin, typically after they have been living abroad. This term is often used in the context of displaced individuals, refugees, or military personnel who need to return to their home country. Repatriation can also apply to the transfer of assets and income, often in legal or financial contexts. The process can involve legal procedures and governmental agreements, especially in humanitarian or political situations.

Synonyms

bring back, restore, return.

Examples of usage

  • The government is repatriating citizens who were stranded abroad.
  • The organization helped with repatriating refugees to their home countries.
  • After the war, many soldiers were repatriated to the United States.
  • Efforts are being made to facilitate the repatriation of cultural artifacts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Repatriation plays a significant role in post-war policy, as countries work to bring back their citizens from conflict zones.
  • In the art world, repatriating cultural artifacts is crucial for restoring heritage and addressing historical injustices.
  • Indigenous communities often seek the return of cultural items and human remains as part of spiritual and cultural healing.

Historical Context

  • After World War II, many displaced individuals and assets were repatriated, shaping modern migration policies.
  • The repatriation of soldiers' remains became a sacred duty for nations, reflecting respect and honor for those who served.
  • Colonial nations are now being pressured to repatriate stolen cultural artifacts to their countries of origin.

Legal Perspectives

  • In international law, repatriating individuals can involve complex treaties, particularly concerning refugees and asylum seekers.
  • Certain laws stipulate the return of cultural property if it was unlawfully taken during periods of war or colonialism.
  • Legal frameworks often address the repatriation of remains to families or communities, honoring cultural practices.

Psychological Impact

  • Repatriation can significantly impact individuals' mental health, providing closure and a sense of belonging.
  • The transition back to one's home culture can be challenging, encompassing feelings of reverse culture shock.
  • For communities, the return of individuals and cultural practices can foster a renewed sense of identity and unity.

Origin of 'repatriating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin roots 're-' meaning 'again' and 'patria' meaning 'fatherland' or 'homeland'.
  • It first appeared in English in the 19th century, tied to the movement of people and artifacts during colonial times.
  • Initially used primarily in legal contexts, its use has expanded to cultural and economic discussions.

The word 'repatriating' is derived from the root 'patria', which is Latin for 'fatherland' or 'native land'. It combines 're-', a prefix meaning 'again' or 'back', with 'patriate', which means to return to oneโ€™s country. The concept has historical significance, particularly following major conflicts, where displaced populations were forced to leave their native lands and later returned. The modern usage of the term has evolved to encompass not just individuals, but also cultural and economic aspects related to emigration and immigration. Repatriation has been recorded in legal and humanitarian texts, reflecting its growing importance in international law and global politics as governments and organizations navigate the complexities of migration and the rights of individuals to return to their homeland.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,502, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.