'Merica

or Mer·i·ca

[ mer-i-kuh ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, Informal.

contraction of America (often used humorously to suggest either a sarcastic or patriotic sentiment):
Wage earners here in ’Merica are no better off.
Can’t wait to get back to ’Merica!

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of 'Merica¹

First recorded in 1800–05 ; by loss of initial, unaccented syllable of America ( def ) (in the sense “United States of America”)

Discover More

Example Sentences

Associated Press writers Dan Merica and Michael Biesecker contributed to this report.

From Seattle Times

And the next Pulisic will be raised in the same old ‘Merica a decade from now, probably getting ready to watch that big NFL Wednesday night matchup played on the moon between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Fightin’ Bezoses.

From Washington Post

Merica, hey!” he yelled, according to video.

From Washington Post

Merica said she didn't know why the Watchmen were there.

From Washington Post

Merica cited a study on the effects of masking on children's carbon dioxide intake — a study later retracted for its flawed methodology.

From Washington Post

Meriç 'Merican

Browse