Emigration

/ˌɛmɪˈɡreɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of leaving one's resident country with the intent to settle elsewhere.
Emigration from rural areas to urban centers has increased over the past decade.
The process of emigrating, or the number of people who emigrate.
The local government is concerned about the emigration of skilled workers to other countries.
A movement of individuals away from a particular geographical area.
The emigration trends show that many people are seeking better opportunities abroad.
Emigration can also refer to the migration of people as a response to economic or political factors.
Historical records indicate that emigration during the famine years greatly affected the population.

Etymology

The word emigration comes from the Latin 'emigrare', which means 'to depart from a place'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

brain drain
The emigration of highly skilled or educated individuals from one country to another, often for better opportunities.
push-pull factors
Factors that drive individuals to leave their home country or draw them to a new country, respectively.
forced migration
Emigration caused by factors such as conflict or persecution that makes it unsafe for individuals to remain in their homeland.

Related Words

immigration
The act of entering and settling in a new country.
refugee
A person who has fled their country due to persecution or danger and seeks safety in another country.
diaspora
The population of a country or community that has settled and resides outside its geographical borders.

Slang Meanings

Going abroad
After graduation, she decided to go abroad for work experience.
Chasing the dream
He's all about chasing the dream in a new country.