Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Colonize: meaning, definitions and examples

🌍
Add to dictionary

colonize

 

[ˈkɒləˌnaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

history

To establish control over (a place or people) by sending settlers and establishing political and economic dominance.

Synonyms

occupy, populate, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
colonize

Commonly used in historical or political contexts when a country establishes control over a foreign land, often implying exploitation or domination. Typically has a negative connotation due to associations with imperialism and subjugation.

  • European powers colonized many parts of Africa in the 19th century.
  • The consequences of colonizing native lands were devastating for the indigenous peoples.
settle

Mostly used in the context of individuals or groups establishing a new home or community in a new area, without necessarily implying dominance or exploitation. It is neutral and often has a more personal or community-oriented connotation.

  • The pioneers decided to settle in the fertile valley.
  • After years of traveling, they finally found a place to settle.
occupy

Used in military or geopolitical contexts to describe the control or presence of armed forces in a particular area, often without the consent of the local population. It generally has a neutral to negative connotation.

  • The army decided to occupy the town until peace was restored.
  • Protesters argue that the occupying forces should leave the region immediately.
populate

Refers to the action of filling an area with people or increasing the population. It has a neutral connotation and is often used in demographic or ecological contexts.

  • The government launched a campaign to encourage families to populate the northern territories.
  • Scientists are studying how different species populate the rainforest.

Examples of usage

  • The British attempted to colonize many parts of the world during the age of imperialism.
  • European powers sought to colonize Africa in the 19th century for its resources.
  • The Spanish colonized parts of the Americas in the 16th century.
  • The process of colonizing often involved displacing indigenous populations.
  • Colonizing efforts often led to conflict and resistance from native inhabitants.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'colonize' comes from the Latin word 'colonia,' which referred to the settlements of Roman citizens.
  • The age of exploration in the 15th century led to widespread colonization, as Europeans sought new trade routes and territories.
  • Colonization often involved the establishment of new governments and cultures that sometimes displaced indigenous populations.

Cultural Impact

  • Colonial powers often imposed their languages, religions, and customs, leading to blended cultures in many regions.
  • Art and literature from colonized regions reflect both indigenous traditions and European influences, creating rich tapestries of cultural exchange.
  • The music genres of various countries today often show the lasting influences of colonization, incorporating both local and external elements.

Environmental Effects

  • Colonization frequently resulted in the exploitation of natural resources and significant environmental changes in new territories.
  • Settlements often led to deforestation, changes in land use, and the introduction of non-native species, affecting local ecosystems.
  • Agricultural practices introduced by colonizers shifted the landscape, often prioritizing cash crops over indigenous food sources.

Modern Perspectives

  • In contemporary discussions, colonization is examined for its long-term impacts on global inequalities and cultural disruptions.
  • Decolonization movements seek to restore indigenous rights and recognition of their histories and contributions.
  • Post-colonial theory explores how former colonies navigate their identities and histories, often looking to reclaim traditional narratives.

Political Context

  • Many countries that experienced colonization fought for independence, often through revolutions or negotiations.
  • Colonial rule often created borders that ignored traditional tribal and ethnic divisions, leading to modern-day conflicts.
  • International bodies now advocate for the rights of indigenous populations and address historical injustices rooted in colonization.

Translations

Translations of the word "colonize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colonizar

🇮🇳 उपनिवेश बनाना

🇩🇪 kolonisieren

🇮🇩 menjajah

🇺🇦 колонізувати

🇵🇱 kolonizować

🇯🇵 植民地化する (shokuminchika suru)

🇫🇷 coloniser

🇪🇸 colonizar

🇹🇷 sömürgeleştirmek

🇰🇷 식민지화하다 (sikminjihwahada)

🇸🇦 استعمر (ista'mara)

🇨🇿 kolonizovat

🇸🇰 kolonizovať

🇨🇳 殖民 (zhímín)

🇸🇮 kolonizirati

🇮🇸 nýlendu

🇰🇿 отарлау

🇬🇪 კოლონიზაცია (kolonizatsia)

🇦🇿 müstəmləkələşdirmək

🇲🇽 colonizar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,208, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.