The term “alienage” is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is still an important word in legal and political contexts. Understanding the definition and meaning of alienage is crucial for those who are interested in legal and political matters.
Definitions
Alienage refers to the status of being an alien, which means a person who is not a citizen or national of the country in which they reside. Alienage can also refer to the state of being a foreigner or outsider in a particular place or society.
Origin
The word “alienage” comes from the Latin word “alienus,” which means “foreign.” The term was first used in the English language in the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, alienage means “the state or condition of being an alien; the fact of being a foreigner.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the state or condition of being an alien; the status of being an alien.”
Associations
Alienage is often associated with immigration and citizenship issues. It is also associated with discrimination against foreigners or people who are perceived as outsiders.
Synonyms
Synonyms for alienage include foreignness, otherness, outsider status, and noncitizenship.
Antonyms
Antonyms for alienage include citizenship, belonging, and nativeness.
The same root words
The root word of alienage is “alien,” which has several meanings, including “foreign,” “strange,” or “exotic.”
Example Sentences
- The company’s policy on hiring only citizens meant that many applicants were rejected due to their alienage.
- The immigrant’s alienage made it difficult for them to find work in a new country.
- The government’s treatment of refugees highlighted the discrimination that can arise from alienage.