birthright

noun

birth·​right ˈbərth-ˌrīt How to pronounce birthright (audio)
: a right, privilege, or possession to which a person is entitled by birth

Examples of birthright in a Sentence

the freedom that is our birthright believed that the house was her birthright
Recent Examples on the Web Trump has pushed to end birthright citizenship since his time in the Oval Office. Morgan Fischer, The Arizona Republic, 4 Mar. 2024 This provides a direct contrast to Grothman’s claim and many GOP arguments that birthright citizenship wouldn’t apply to children of migrants. Sophia Voight, Journal Sentinel, 12 Jan. 2024 Always derive the natural fun and pleasure which is part of every saxophonist’s birthright. Jordan Castro, Harper's Magazine, 8 Jan. 2024 This issue is dedicated to the woman who understands the unique burdens of our birthright—but also acts as a balm for the troubles of this world. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 19 Dec. 2023 Combining Arabian folklore with modern themes, the film follows a kind-hearted jinn, portrayed by Baraa Alem, who goes on an epic journey to reclaim his birthright. Georg Szalai, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Nov. 2023 Both experiences arose from Jackson’s bicultural birthright. Reed Johnson, Los Angeles Times, 26 Jan. 2024 Turmoil was Kissinger’s, and his generation’s, birthright. Christian Schneider, National Review, 21 Dec. 2023 The protagonist, named Baraa Alem, goes on an epic journey to reclaim his birthright and maintain his mental balance between the human and supernatural worlds. Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 16 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'birthright.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of birthright was in 1535

Dictionary Entries Near birthright

Cite this Entry

“Birthright.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/birthright. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

birthright

noun
birth·​right -ˌrīt How to pronounce birthright (audio)
: a right or possession that a person is entitled to by birth

More from Merriam-Webster on birthright

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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