colony

Transitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: coloniespast: colonizedpp: colonizeding: colonizing

The word carries a heavy historical weight, often evoking images of imperial expansion, exploitation, and political subjugation. In political discussions, it typically suggests an unequal power dynamic where the governing body is distant and the local population is controlled.

Countable when referring to a specific political territory or a single group of insects. Uncountable when referring to the general state of colonial existence or the biological phenomenon of colonial growth.

Meanings

Noun

[someone][something]

A group of people of one nationality settled in a territory controlled by another state.

"The British established a colony in North America."

Noun

[something]

A community of animals of the same species living together.

"A colony of ants built a nest under the porch."

Transitive Verb

[someone][something]

To settle an area as a colony.

"The empire sought to colony the distant islands."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026•Report an Error