What does the Fatherland mean?

The term "fatherland" refers to an anthropomorphized conception of certain countries. "Motherland" is another common term like this. "Fatherland" is a translation of Latin "patria" (from "pater" meaning "father"), which is related to Words like "patriotic" (love of one's fatherland or homeland), etc.

Most typically, "fatherland" is used in a context referring to Germany. In German "Vaterland" means "fatherland"; however, since World War II this term has developed Nazi connotations, so it is now avoided in general except in ironic or humorous contexts.