1. past tense and past participle of colonialize; to bring (a territory or people) under colonial rule or control
Usage: often used in historical and political contexts; frequently appears in academic discussions of imperialism

Examples

• European powers colonialized much of Africa during the 19th century.
• The indigenous population was colonialized by foreign settlers.
• Many nations that were colonialized in the past have since gained independence.
• The region was colonialized for its natural resources and strategic location.
• Historians study how societies were colonialized and the lasting effects of colonialism.
• The colonialized territories eventually rebelled against imperial rule.