colonialism
/kəˈləʊ.ni.ə.lɪ.zəm/ · col.o.ni.al.ism
noun
- The colonial domination policy, where a powerful nation or state exercises control over a weaker or dependent territory, often imposing its culture, language, and institutions. The historian studied the effects of colonialism on the indigenous population of Africa.
- A colonial system, characterized by the exploitation of the colonized territory's resources and labor for the benefit of the colonizer. The colonial system in India was marked by widespread poverty and inequality.
- A colonial word, phrase, concept, or habit that has been adopted into the language of the colonizer. The use of 'sir' as a title of respect was a colonial legacy in many English-speaking countries.
- Colonial life, including the experiences, culture, and traditions of people living under colonial rule. The memoirs of a colonial administrator provided a unique insight into the daily life of a colonial officer.
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Did you know? The term 'colonialism' was first used in the 17th century to describe the Spanish and Portuguese empires in the Americas, but it gained widespread usage during the 20th century, particularly in the context of anti-colonial movements and postcolonial studies.