green card

noun

: an identity card attesting the permanent resident status of an alien in the U.S.
green-carder noun

Examples of green card in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All the while, the government was rejecting their investors’ green card applications, because immigration officials didn’t find their business plan credible, according to prosecutors. John Annese, New York Daily News, 30 July 2025 Another consumer was sent a package that included a $385 cost for renewing her green card, known as a permanent resident card. Susan Tompor, USA Today, 30 July 2025 In addition to people living in the country without legal status, immigrants with valid documentation, including green cards and visas, have been detained. Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025 The restrictions would not apply to U.S. citizens and green card holders, and the bill carves out an exception for an individual's primary residence. Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for green card

Word History

Etymology

from the fact that it was formerly colored green

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of green card was in 1956

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Cite this Entry

“Green card.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/green%20card. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

Legal Definition

green card

noun
: an identity card attesting the permanent resident status of an alien in the U.S.
Etymology

from the fact that it was formerly colored green

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