Definition

The condition of being a foreigner or not a citizen in a particular country.

Example

The court ruled on the implications of alienage in immigration law.

Conversation

I was reading about alienage the other day and found it really interesting.

Oh really? What did you learn?

It talked about the legal status and rights of aliens in different countries.

That sounds fascinating! I didn't know it was such a complex issue.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Alienage → It is formed from "alien" (from Latin "alienus", meaning belonging to another) and "-age" (a suffix indicating a state or condition). The word "alienage" refers to the state of being an alien or foreigner, particularly in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'alien' meaning belonging to another, and '-age' indicating a state — so alienage means the state of being a foreigner.

Visually Confused Words