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.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
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
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“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.”
“Vatican City is the smallest city-state, yet it has enormous influence around the globe.”
📚Related Words
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