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conquer

v.
US //ˈkɑŋkɝ// UK //kˈɒnkɐ// con·quer
  1. 1 to defeat in war (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to take control of a country or city by winning a war.

    to acquire territory or subjugate a population by force of arms.

    Example

    The Roman Empire managed to conquer most of Europe and parts of Africa.

    Example

    The invading army sought to conquer the coastal provinces before the winter snows blocked the mountain passes.

    Usage

    Often used with a direct object representing a place or a people.
  2. 2 to overcome a problem (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to successfully deal with a difficult situation, a fear, or a bad habit.

    to overcome an abstract obstacle or psychological challenge through effort and persistence.

    Example

    It took her many years to finally conquer her fear of flying.

    Example

    The research team worked tirelessly to conquer the technical difficulties that had delayed the project for months.
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  1. 3 to gain by effort (v.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    to win someone's love or to reach a difficult goal through hard work.

    to gain, win, or obtain something desirable through significant exertion or charm.

    Example

    He hoped his kind actions would eventually conquer her heart.

    Example

    The young diplomat aimed to conquer the respect of his peers through meticulous preparation and unwavering integrity.
Origin

From Middle English conqueren, from Old French conquerre, from Late Latin conquaerere (“to knock, strike; to search for, procure”), from Latin con- + quaerere (“to seek, acquire”). Displaced native Old English oferwinnan.

Word family

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