noun
civilization
sihv-ih-leye-ZAY-shuhn
noun
1
A large, organised society with its own culture, institutions, and level of development, often spanning a nation or region.
"Historians study how ancient civilizations rose and fell."
"The internet has reshaped modern civilization."
2
Human society as a whole, especially in its organised, "civil" form.
"The hikers were glad to get back to civilization after a week in the wilderness."
How to Use Civilization
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA developed, organised society — or human society in general, especially the comforts and structure of city/modern life.
Common pairings
ancient civilization
modern civilization
return to civilization
Word Forms
civilizations plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “civilization”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Historians study how ancient _____ rose and fell.
Etymology
From French civilisation, built from civilize plus -ation.