Word definition: national

Etimology


From Middle French national, corresponding to nation +‎ -al.

adjective


national (comparative more national, superlative most national)

Pertaining to a nation or country, especially as a whole; affecting, shared by, or existing throughout all of a nation. [from 16th c.]

Belonging to or characteristic of a specific nation or country, as opposed to others. [from 17th c.]

(now rare) Nationalistic; patriotic. [from 17th c.]

Examples


a national assembly · on the front page of every national newspaper

Import tariffs were raised for the national interest.

this is their national dish · our national tendency to laugh at the French

‘Come, come, don't deny it: they are really national. Why, now, the Adams are as liberal-minded men as any in the world: but, I don't know how it is, all their workmen are Scotch.’

noun


national (plural nationals)

A subject of a nation.

(usually in the plural) A tournament in which participants from all over the nation compete.

(usually in the plural, journalism) A national newspaper.

Examples


The diplomats were advised not to interact with any foreign nationals except on official duty.

After winning the regional tournament, the team advanced to the nationals.

I had a crush on Bardot / Fell in love with Monroe / Read about 'em in the nationals / All the juicy little scandals

Data provided by Wiktionary