Colonially Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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colonially

[kəˈloʊnɪəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

historical usage

Colonially refers to the manner in which colonial powers governed their territories and interacted with the indigenous populations. It often suggests a perspective that emphasizes the exploitation and control characteristic of colonial rule.

Synonyms

imperially, subjugatingly.

Examples of usage

  • The country was colonially influenced by its former empire.
  • Colonially imposed laws often disregarded local customs.
  • The region developed colonially, leading to significant social changes.

Translations

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Origin of 'colonially'

The term 'colonially' derives from 'colonial,' which traces its roots back to the Latin word 'colonia,' meaning 'settlement' or 'farm.' This Latin term in turn is related to 'colonus,' meaning 'farmer' or 'settler.' The concept of colonialism emerged prominently in the 15th and 16th centuries during the Age of Exploration when European powers sought to expand their territories by establishing colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Colonial practices led to significant social, economic, and political changes in both the colonizers and the colonized. The adverb 'colonially' embodies this historical context, highlighting actions, policies, or interactions that are characteristic of colonial rule.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,391, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.