Colonialist: meaning, definitions and examples

history

A person who supports or advocates for colonialism, which is the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

colonizer, imperialist, settler

Examples of usage

• The colonialists believed in the superiority of their culture.

• Many colonialists viewed the indigenous people as inferior.

• The colonialists imposed their language and customs on the native population.

• Colonialists often justified their actions as bringing progress and civilization to the colonies.

• The legacy of colonialists can still be seen in many former colonies.