Colonial

/kəˈloʊ.ni.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who settles in a colony.
The colonial sought new opportunities in the distant land.
adjective
Relating to a colony or colonies.
The colonial architecture in the town reflects its history as a former settlement.
Pertaining to the period of European domination of overseas territories.
The colonial powers often imposed their culture on the indigenous populations.
Describing a style or influence characteristic of the colonies.
The museum showcases a variety of colonial artifacts from different regions.

Etymology

From Latin 'colonia', meaning 'farm' or 'settlement', from 'colere', meaning 'to cultivate'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

colonial powers:
Nations that established and controlled colonies.
colonial era:
The historical period during which many territories were colonized.

Related Words

Slang Meanings