Denaturalize

To denaturalize is to deprive someone of their citizenship or nationality, especially citizenship obtained through naturalization. This action effectively strips an individual of their rights and privileges associated with citizenship, such as the right to live and work in a country, the right to a passport, and the right to vote. Denaturalization is typically reserved for cases where citizenship was obtained fraudulently, such as by providing false information on an application, or where an individual has engaged in activities deemed harmful to the state, like treason or terrorism. The process is often complex and involves legal proceedings. It can also refer to the removal of natural qualities or characteristics.

Denaturalize meaning with examples

• The government decided to denaturalize the spy after discovering he had lied on his application to become a citizen. He was stripped of his passport and faced immediate deportation to his country of origin. This decision sent a strong message about the consequences of betraying one's adopted nation. He was also banned from re-entering the country at any point.
• The court voted to denaturalize the convicted terrorist, nullifying his citizenship. He lost all the rights and protections afforded to citizens. After a lengthy legal battle, his denaturalization was upheld, leading to his immediate removal. The proceedings were widely publicized, highlighting the government's stance on terrorism and citizenship.
• Following investigations, the authorities moved to denaturalize several individuals suspected of fraudulent financial dealings. They were accused of acquiring citizenship through illicit means and failing to meet the necessary requirements. These citizens were brought to court after months of investigation, and their citizenship was revoked after the judge gave their final verdict.
• The environmentalists warned that the unchecked development would denaturalize the forest area, destroying its natural habitat. They said that urbanization and deforestation were altering the area and threatening the delicate ecosystem. They attempted to stop the process, claiming that this would lead to the extinction of several rare species.