Skip to main content

city-state — An independent state consisting of a city and its surrounding territory, having its own government

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: An independent state consisting of a city and its surrounding territory, having its own government

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsɪt̬.i.steɪt/

Example Sentences

  • Singapore is often cited as the most successful modern city-state in the world.
  • My tiny apartment has its own rules, its own economy, and its own government—basically, it's a city-state now.
  • The exam question asked students to compare Sparta and Athens as rival Greek city-states.

city-state

NOUN

[/ˈsɪt̬.i.steɪt/]

An independent state consisting of a city and its surrounding territory, having its own government

Ancient Athens thrived as a city-state, ruling itself with its own laws and army.
💡 Concept

Ancient Athens thrived as a city-state, ruling itself with its own laws and army.

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈsɪt̬.i.steɪt/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈsɪti.steɪt/

🌳Etymology

Rootcity
Suffix-state

Origin

A straightforward compound of 'city' (from Latin civitas) and 'state' (from Latin status), literally meaning a city that functions as its own sovereign nation.

Breakdown

city (urban settlement) + state (sovereign political entity)

🎵Rhyme

estate
debate
create

🔗Collocations

ancient city-state
independent city-state
the city-state of Athens
form a city-state
rule a city-state
modern city-state
rival city-states

📝Examples

“Singapore is often cited as the most successful modern city-state in the world.”

😄 Fun example

“My tiny apartment has its own rules, its own economy, and its own government—basically, it's a city-state now.”

“The exam question asked students to compare Sparta and Athens as rival Greek city-states.”

“Vatican City is the smallest city-state, yet it has enormous influence around the globe.”

📚Related Words

Want to master 27,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.