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Statehood: meaning, definitions and examples

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statehood

 

[ ˈsteɪthʊd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

political status

Statehood refers to the status of being a recognized independent state. In the context of political geography, it includes the rights and privileges associated with full membership in a federation. For example, when a territory achieves statehood, it gains sovereignty and the ability to govern itself. The term is often used in discussions about territories seeking to attain statehood, such as in the context of the United States, where territories like Puerto Rico have debated their status for decades.

Synonyms

independence, nationhood, sovereignty

Examples of usage

  • The territory is pushing for statehood.
  • Statehood is a goal for many nations.
  • Discussions about statehood often involve complex legal issues.
  • The process of gaining statehood can be lengthy.

Translations

Translations of the word "statehood" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estatalidade

🇮🇳 राज्यत्व

🇩🇪 Staatsbürgerschaft

🇮🇩 kenegaraan

🇺🇦 державність

🇵🇱 państwowość

🇯🇵 国家性

🇫🇷 étatisme

🇪🇸 estatidad

🇹🇷 devlet olma

🇰🇷 국가성

🇸🇦 دولة

🇨🇿 státnost

🇸🇰 štátnosť

🇨🇳 国家身份

🇸🇮 državnost

🇮🇸 ríki

🇰🇿 мемлекеттiк

🇬🇪 სახელმწიფოება

🇦🇿 dövlətçilik

🇲🇽 estatalidad

Etymology

The term 'statehood' emerged in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'state,' which can be traced back to the Latin 'status,' meaning 'condition' or 'standing.' The suffix '-hood' denotes a state or condition, often used in terms such as 'childhood' or 'brotherhood.' As nations began to form and empires expanded, discussions around the concept of statehood became increasingly vital. In the United States, the concept gained prominence as new territories were established and sought to join the Union, with debates focusing on the rights and recognitions inherent in statehood. The historical context of statehood reflects on the political and social changes that accompany the transition from territory to state, often involving legislation and public sentiment. Today, statehood remains a crucial topic within international relations, particularly for regions and peoples striving for self-determination and governance.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,083, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.