Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

royal-colony

noun

/ˈrɔɪ.əl ˈkɒl.ə.ni/

Definition

A royal colony is a type of colonial administration that is directly overseen by the monarch or their representative.

Examples

The British established several royal colonies in North America during the 17th century.
Unlike proprietary colonies, royal colonies had a governor appointed by the king.

Meaning

In a royal colony, the ruling king or queen of a country appoints a governor to manage the colony, and the colony is expected to adhere to the laws and directives issued by the crown.