colonial
5 synonyms for colonial, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Relating to a colony, or to the era when a territory was ruled as one.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
colonizing
settler
How to use colonial
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
colonial era
colonial rule
colonial architecture
Etymology
From colony plus the adjective suffix -al.
Full origin of colonial →Frequently asked questions
What does “colonial” mean?
The word “colonial” means relating to a colony, or to the era when a territory was ruled as one. In plain terms, describing anything to do with colonies — the places, the era, or the politics of ruling them.
How do you pronounce “colonial”?
“Colonial” is pronounced kuh-LOH-nee-uhl (/kəˈloʊ.njəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “colonial” in a sentence?
Here is “colonial” used in a sentence: “The museum has an exhibit on colonial-era trade routes.”
What part of speech is “colonial”?
“Colonial” is an adjective.
Is “colonial” a common word?
“Colonial” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between 'colonial' and 'colonialism'?
'Colonial' is an adjective describing something relating to a colony or to the era when a territory was ruled as one, as in 'colonial rule' or 'colonial architecture'. 'Colonialism' is the noun for the policy or system of acquiring and controlling colonies.
What is the difference between 'colonial' and 'imperial'?
'Colonial' relates specifically to colonies, the settlements or territories controlled by a distant power. 'Imperial' relates to an empire or emperor more broadly. Colonies are often part of imperial expansion, but 'imperial' can also describe an empire's central authority rather than its colonies.
What does 'colonial' refer to in 'colonial architecture'?
In 'colonial architecture', 'colonial' means dating from or built in the style of the period when a territory was ruled as a colony. The term describes buildings whose design reflects that colonial era, often blending the ruling power's style with local materials.
What is the difference between 'colonial' and 'postcolonial'?
'Colonial' refers to the period when a territory was governed as a colony. 'Postcolonial' refers to the time and conditions after colonial rule ended, and to the study of its lasting effects on former colonies.
