states'
|state|
/steɪts/
(state)
condition or position
Etymology
'state' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'status', where the root 'stare' meant 'to stand' or 'to be positioned'.
'state' changed from the Old French word 'estat' into Middle English 'state' and eventually became the modern English word 'state'.
Initially, it meant 'position' or 'condition', but over time it also came to mean 'a political entity' (a nation or organized territory) while retaining the sense of 'condition'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural possessive form of 'state' — indicates ownership or association by multiple states (e.g., things belonging to the states).
The states' governors met to coordinate disaster relief.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a politically organized body of people under a single government; a country or territorial division (singular: 'state').
Each state has its own laws and constitution.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a particular condition or situation of a person or thing (e.g., emotional, physical, or technical condition).
The machine was in a dangerous state before repairs.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/28 10:33