imperialize

transitive verb

im·​pe·​ri·​al·​ize
-ed/-ing/-s
: to make imperial : invest with an imperial quality or character : bring to the form of an empire

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of imperialize was circa 1785

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near imperialize

Cite this Entry

“Imperialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imperialize. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!