imperialism
UK: ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm | US: ɪmˈpɪriəlɪzəm
n. A policy or ideology of extending a nation's authority over other countries, often through colonization or economic dominance.
n. The system or practices associated with imperial rule or hegemony.
imperialism = imperial<relating to an empire> + ism<doctrine or ideology>
- imperial: Derived from Latin imperium (command, authority, empire), combining in- (into) + parare (to prepare, order). Evolved to denote supreme power or dominion.
- ism: A suffix from Greek -ismos, forming nouns indicating a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy (e.g., capitalism, socialism).
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in the 19th century, blending imperial (rooted in Roman governance) with -ism to critique European colonial expansion. It reflects the logic of empire-building—framing dominance as a formalized ideology rather than mere conquest.
British imperialism shaped global trade routes in the 19th century.
Critics argue that cultural imperialism undermines local traditions.
The economic motives behind imperialism often exploited colonized regions.
Postcolonial studies examine the legacy of European imperialism.
Some nations resisted imperialism through armed rebellion.