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Definition of imperialism

imperialism

/ɪmˈpɪr.i.əˌlɪz.əm/
im · pe · ri · al · ism
Adverb:imperialistically
•
Plural:imperialisms
•
Adjective:imperialistic
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imperialism Lexical Profile

imperialism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A policy or practice of extending a country's power and influence over other nations or territories through colonization, military force, or economic and political dominance.

Example

"The history seminar examined how nineteenth-century European imperialism reshaped global trade networks and political borders."

2

Rule by an emperor or empress; an imperial system of government.

Example

"The transition from the Roman Republic to Roman imperialism fundamentally altered the role of the Senate."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

'Imperialism' refers broadly to extending a nation's power through political or economic dominance, whereas 'colonialism' specifically entails establishing physical settlements and direct governance over a conquered territory.

• Rhymes for imperialism

• Nearby Words

imperfectness
imperial
imperial river
imperialism
imperialist
imperialistic
imperially

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century (originally in reference to the French Second Empire of Napoleon III), from 'imperial' (from Latin 'imperialis', from 'imperium' meaning 'command, supreme authority, empire') + '-ism'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Imperialism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/imperialism
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