Napoleon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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napoleon

[nษ™หˆpoสŠl.i.ษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical figure

Napoleon Bonaparte was a military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution. He became Emperor of the French and led several successful campaigns during the Revolutionary Wars. Napoleon is known for his role in the Napoleonic Wars, where he expanded French territory across much of Europe. His legal reform, the Napoleonic Code, has influenced many modern legal systems. Despite his ultimate defeat and exile, Napoleon's impact on European history remains significant.

Examples of usage

  • Napoleon was a brilliant military strategist.
  • Many countries were affected by Napoleon's conquests.
  • Historically, Napoleon is seen as a controversial figure.

Translations

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Origin of 'napoleon'

The name 'Napoleon' derives from the Italian 'Napoleone', which is a diminutive form of 'Napoleone di Buonaparte', the birth name of Napoleon Bonaparte, born on August 15, 1769, in Corsica. The family name โ€˜Buonaparteโ€™ translates to โ€˜good departureโ€™ in Italian, reflecting the family's ambitious nature. Napoleon was a member of the Italian nobility and his name became synonymous with military genius and political strategy after his rise to power in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His leadership style and the establishment of his empire changed the course of European history and politics. His legacy includes the promotion of the French Revolution's ideals and the spread of nationalism across Europe, despite the tumultuous wars and his eventual downfall in 1815. The name 'Napoleon' is now often used to refer not only to the historical figure but also to the complex nature of power and ambition.