California

[kal-uh-fawrn-yuh, -fawr-nee-uh] / ˌkæl əˈfɔrn yə, -ˈfɔr ni ə /

NOUN

u.s. state

Synonyms

WEAK

Bear Flag State Cal El Dorado Gold Coast Gold Rush State Golden Bear State Golden Poppy State Golden State La La Land Sunkist State

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The disposition will determine your tax burden and that of your heirs, especially in a high-tax state like California.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

At the University of California, hundreds of professors wrote a letter last week urging the UC regents to reinstate entrance-exam requirements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

The survey methodology comes from professionals at the University of Southern California, a private institution, and the count requires approval from the U.S.

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2026

Managing partner Tim Arrowsmith has grown his California herd from 10 to 5,000 goats, serving clients from the Forest Service, to homeowners associations, to Pacific Gas & Electric.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

“I grew up here, but my mom and dad got tired of all the hurricanes and moved us to California when I was in high school. They’re still out there. They’re fine,” said Patience.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz