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Translate files Naturalization
/ˌnætʃərəlɪˈzeɪʃən/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The legal process by which a non-citizen in a country may acquire citizenship or nationality of that country.
Her application for naturalization was approved after a thorough review of her background.
The process of adapting something to a new environment, often referring to plants or animals.
The naturalization of the foreign plant species changed the local ecosystem significantly.
The formal admission of a foreigner to the rights of a citizen.
His naturalization ceremony was a memorable event, marking his new life as an American citizen.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'naturalizatio', from 'naturalizare', meaning to make natural.
Common Phrases and Expressions
naturalization ceremony
A formal event where new citizens take an oath of loyalty to their new country.
pathway to citizenship
The procedures and processes that lead to legal citizenship.
dual citizenship
The status of being a citizen of two countries simultaneously, often a result of naturalization.
Related Words
citizen
A person who is legally recognized as a member of a state.
nationality
The status of belonging to a particular nation.
immigration
The action of coming to live permanently in a foreign country.
Slang Meanings
Natty
He's going through the natty process to become a citizen.
Naturalize
After living here for years, he's finally ready to naturalize.