1. a political unit having a republican form of government
2. an association of self-governing autonomous states united by common allegiance
3. the general welfare; public good
Usage: formal

Examples

• Massachusetts is officially called the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• The British Commonwealth includes many former colonies.
• Australia is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
• The governor spoke about protecting the commonwealth’s interests.
• Virginia is one of four U.S. states designated as a commonwealth.
• The Commonwealth Games are held every four years.
• Leaders worked together for the good of the commonwealth.