city-state

noun

ˈsi-tē-ˌstāt How to pronounce city-state (audio)
 also  -ˈstāt
: an autonomous state consisting of a city and surrounding territory

Examples of city-state in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This city-state packs a world of experiences into its ever-changing skyline and sprawling gardens. Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 12 Feb. 2025 For most of history, empires, kingdoms, and city-states defined political organization. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025 Barbarians and city-states have merged into one concept, called independents. Ars Technica, 3 Feb. 2025 Carthage, once a powerful city-state, showcases the remnants of an ancient civilization that shaped Mediterranean history. Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 1 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for city-state 

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of city-state was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near city-state

Cite this Entry

“City-state.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/city-state. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

city-state

noun
ˈsit-ē-ˈstāt,
-ˌstāt
: a self-governing state consisting of a city and surrounding territory

More from Merriam-Webster on city-state

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