1. to establish a colony in a place; to send settlers to occupy and control a territory
Usage: British spelling
2. to move into and establish control over a place or situation
Usage: British spelling
3. to spread to and become established in a new environment
Usage: British spelling; biology

Examples

• European powers began to colonise Africa in the 19th century.
• The British colonised Australia starting in 1788.
• Bacteria can colonise wounds if they are not properly cleaned.
• Weeds quickly colonised the abandoned garden.
• The company plans to colonise new markets in Asia.
• Coral polyps colonise suitable surfaces on the reef.
• Settlers were encouraged to colonise the western territories.