noun
Uncommon
colonialism
kuh-LOH-nyuh-lih-zuhm
Colonialism (noun) means the practice of one country controlling another territory and its people, typically to extract resources or labor for its own benefit. Example: “The novel examines the lasting effects of colonialism on the region's economy.”
noun
1
The practice of one country controlling another territory and its people, typically to extract resources or labor for its own benefit.
"The novel examines the lasting effects of colonialism on the region's economy."
"Historians continue to debate the legacy of European colonialism in Africa."
How to use colonialism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe system and practice of one nation dominating and exploiting another people or territory.
Common pairings
legacy of colonialism
european colonialism
the effects of colonialism
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Word forms
- Plural
- colonialisms
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The novel examines the lasting effects of _____ on the region's economy.
Etymology
From colonial plus -ism, following the pattern of naming political systems and ideologies.
Rhymes for colonialism
realism
fatalism
idealism
globalism
socialism
vandalism
federalism
radicalism
capitalism
liberalism
surrealism
journalism
See all rhymes for colonialism →
Frequently asked questions
What does “colonialism” mean?
The word “colonialism” means the practice of one country controlling another territory and its people, typically to extract resources or labor for its own benefit. In plain terms, the system and practice of one nation dominating and exploiting another people or territory.
How do you pronounce “colonialism”?
“Colonialism” is pronounced kuh-LOH-nyuh-lih-zuhm (/kəˈloʊ.njə.lɪ.zəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “colonialism” in a sentence?
Here is “colonialism” used in a sentence: “The novel examines the lasting effects of colonialism on the region's economy.”
What part of speech is “colonialism”?
“Colonialism” is a noun.
Is “colonialism” a common word?
“Colonialism” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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