Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkɒlənɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. The action or process of establishing control over the indigenous people of an area.
2. The state of being colonized, typically by a foreign power.
3. The process of settling among and establishing control over the indigenous people of an area, often for the purpose of exploiting resources or expanding territory.

Usage Examples

• "The colonization of the Americas by European powers had profound effects on indigenous societies."
• "Many former colonies gained independence after the end of colonialism and the push for decolonization."
• "The British colonization of India lasted for nearly two centuries."

Etymology

The word "colonization" comes from the Latin word "colonia," meaning "settlement" or "farm," which refers to the establishment of a group of settlers. The term gained wider use during the Age of Exploration and the expansion of European powers overseas, particularly in the 16th to 19th centuries.

Synonyms

• Settlement
• Imperialism
• Expansionism
• Colonialism

Antonyms

• Independence
• Autonomy
• Self-determination
• Decolonization

Translations in Major Global Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary across different regions and dialects. For example, in former colonies, the pronunciation of "colonization" may be influenced by indigenous languages or the former colonial language.

Historical Usage

The word "colonization" gained widespread use during the 15th to 20th centuries when European powers began establishing colonies around the world, especially in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Colonization often involved the subjugation of indigenous peoples and the exploitation of natural resources.

Cultural Nuances

Colonization often carries strong cultural and emotional connotations. For many people in colonized regions, it evokes feelings of oppression and resistance. In modern discussions, decolonization and the return of indigenous lands and cultures have become important social and political movements.

More Information

Colonization had far-reaching effects on the social, economic, and political structures of both the colonizers and the colonized. While it led to the growth of global trade networks and cultural exchanges, it also resulted in widespread exploitation, violence, and displacement. The consequences of colonization are still evident in modern geopolitics and cultural identities.