Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
colonize
verb
/ˈkɒlənaɪz/
Definition
To establish a colony in a new territory or to settle in an area and take control over it.
Examples
- The Spanish sought to colonize parts of South America in the 16th century.
- Scientists are studying how certain species colonize barren landscapes after natural disasters.
- Many countries look at colonization as a controversial part of their history.
Meaning
Colonizing involves settling a population in a new region and claiming it as part of a nation or empire.
Synonyms
- settle
- occupy
- establish
- populate
