**adjective** * of, relating to, or maintained by a [nation](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nation) as an organized whole or independent political unit: *national affairs.* * owned, preserved, or maintained by the federal government: *a national wildlife refuge.* * peculiar or common to the whole people of a country: *national customs.* * devoted to one's own [nation](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nation), its interests, etc.; patriotic: *to stir up national pride. [nationalist.](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nationalist)* * concerning or encompassing an entire [nation](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nation): *a national radio network.* * limited to one [nation](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nation). **noun** * a citizen or subject of a particular [nation](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nation) who is entitled to its protection: *U.S. nationals living abroad.* * Often **nationals**. a national competition, tournament, or the like: *We're invited to Minneapolis for the nationals.* * a national company or organization. *[Source](https://www.dictionary.com/browse/national): Dictionary.com