Colonizing

/ˈkɒlənɪzɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The process of establishing colonies and extending control over territories; or describing nations engaged in this practice.

Etymology

Present participle of 'colonize,' used as both verb form and adjective. Became standard in historical and biological discourse by the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Native American histories describe how 'colonizing' wasn't just military—diseases killed millions before armies even arrived. Historians now look at colonizing as a complex process involving disease, ideology, and trade, not just soldiers.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.