co
mmon
wealth
Plural
commonwealths
1
a politically organized body of people under a single government, typically emphasizing the common good
- The commonwealth enacted new laws for public welfare.
- Citizens contributed to the commonwealth through taxes and service.
- The reform aimed to strengthen the commonwealth.
- Public education is a key responsibility of the commonwealth.
- The governor addressed the citizens of the commonwealth.
2
the official designation of certain U.S. states and associated territories, including Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, and Puerto Rico
- Massachusetts is officially called the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- The governor serves as the head of the commonwealth.
- Kentucky's constitution refers to the state as a commonwealth.
- Pennsylvania is recognized as a commonwealth in its official documents.
- The commonwealth designation has historical significance in these states.
3
a global organization of self-governing states that share allegiance to a central authority while remaining independent of one another
- The Commonwealth of Nations includes countries like Canada, Australia, and India.
- Member states of the commonwealth collaborate on trade and diplomacy.
- Membership in the commonwealth reflects historical ties rather than political control.
- The summit brought together leaders from all commonwealth countries.
- Each state in the commonwealth retains sovereignty.
4
the political structure during a period in the history of the UK between 1649 and 1660, called the interregnum, during which the country was ruled without a king or queen
- The Commonwealth is an association of independent states, most of which were former territories of the British Empire, that cooperate on matters of mutual interest.
- The Commonwealth operates on the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, promoting these values among its member states.
- The Commonwealth Secretariat, headquartered in London, serves as the central organization responsible for coordinating activities and initiatives within the Commonwealth.
- The Queen of England serves as the symbolic head of the Commonwealth, representing its shared heritage and values.
- The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is held every two years, providing leaders of member states with the opportunity to discuss and address issues of common concern.