English Reference
Noun

colonialism

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US /kəˈɫoʊniəˌɫɪzəm/ UK /kəlˈəʊnɪəlˌɪzəm/ colo·nial·ism

n.the practice of one country taking control of other lands and people, often to use their resources. It usually involves moving people from the powerful country to live in the new territory.

n.the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.


SIMPLE

Many nations in Africa and Asia gained independence from European colonialism.

CONTEXTUAL

The history of the region is deeply marked by the legacy of colonialism and the struggle for self-determination.

COMPLEX

Scholars often examine how the structures of colonialism persisted long after formal independence, influencing modern economic and social hierarchies across the globe.

Usage

Uncountable in its general sense; can be used with 'of' to specify the colonizing power.

Nell and her family – especially her sister’s secret relationship with the (white) neighbourhood policeman – demonstrate the forces of racism and colonialism at work.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

Its blended heritage, he explains, points a way past the trauma that colonialism, racism, dictatorship and terrorism have inflicted on his country.

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026

From colonial + -ism.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated