Member country is a combination of two words, "member" and "country", with stress on the first syllable of both words. The IPA phonetic transcription of "member" is /ˈmɛmbər/ and of "country" is /ˈkʌntri/. When pronounced together, the stress falls on the first syllable of "member" and "country" is pronounced with a schwa sound at the second syllable. Therefore, the correct spelling of "member country" is /ˈmɛmbər ˈkʌntri/ in IPA transcription.
A member country refers to a nation or state that is part of an international organization or cooperative body. These organizations can range from regional alliances to global institutions and are formed based on shared objectives, common interests, or economic and political cooperation.
Being a member country of an organization implies that the nation has willingly joined and voluntarily commits to adhering to the organization's rules, regulations, and policies. In return, member countries gain certain benefits and privileges, such as collective decision-making power, access to resources or funding, and the opportunity to engage in diplomatic negotiations and collaborations with other member nations.
Typically, member countries contribute either financially or through resources to support the functioning and objectives of the organization. Each member country may have rights and obligations specific to its participation, including the obligation of paying dues, contributing expertise, or actively participating in the decision-making process.
Membership in such organizations can have significant implications for a member country's domestic policies and international relations since it represents a commitment to collaborate with other nations to achieve common goals. Additionally, membership can enhance a country's global standing, influence, and bargaining power, as it becomes part of a collective entity that seeks to address shared challenges and promote mutual prosperity.
The word "member country" does not have a unique etymology as it is a combination of two individual words. However, we can analyze the etymology of each word separately:
1. Member: The word "member" comes from the Middle English "membre", which itself evolved from the Old French "membre". It derives ultimately from the Latin word "membrum", meaning "a limb or part of the body". In a figurative sense, "member" refers to a part or a component of a larger group or organization.
2. Country: The term "country" has its origins in the Latin word "contra" or "contrata", which initially meant "a territory opposite or against the city". Over time, "country" evolved into English from the Old French word "contreé". It originally referred to a region, land, or a definite geographic area.