empire
/ˈɛmpaɪ.ə/ · em·pire
noun
- A political unit, typically having an extensive territory or comprising a number of territories or nations (especially one comprising one or more kingdoms) and ruled by a single supreme authority. The Russian empire was a vast and influential power in Eastern Europe.
noun
- A political unit ruled by an emperor or empress. The Empire of Vietnam was a short-lived client state of Japan governing Vietnam between March 11 and August 23, 1945.
noun
- A group of states or other territories that owe allegiance to a foreign power. The British Empire was a collection of territories and states under British control.
adjective
- Following or imitating a style popular during the First French Empire (1804–1814). The furniture in the room was in the Empire style, with intricate carvings and ornate details.
adjective
- Of wine, produced in a dependency of the British Empire or Commonwealth of Nations. The wine was labeled as an Empire wine, indicating its origin in a British territory.
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Antonyms
Did you know? The term 'empire' has been used to describe various forms of governance throughout history, from ancient Rome to modern-day nation-states. Its versatility and adaptability have made it a staple in the English language.