noun

colonialism

kuh-LOH-nyuh-lih-zuhm

noun

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 notes

In 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

colonialisms plural

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The novel examines the lasting effects of _____ on the region's economy.

From colonial plus -ism, following the pattern of naming political systems and ideologies.

realism idealism socialism vandalism capitalism liberalism surrealism journalism materialism cannibalism nationalism imperialism