What does imperialist mean?
An imperialist is someone who supports a policy of extending one nation's political, economic, or military power over another country or territory. The adjective imperialist is used for attitudes, ambitions, policies, or movements associated with that support, as in “imperialist expansion” or “imperialist ambitions.” In modern discussion, the term most often appears in political, historical, and anti-colonial contexts. It carries a strongly critical connotation because imperial expansion has commonly involved conquest, exploitation, unequal rule, and the disruption of local political or cultural institutions. The related noun imperialism is often more appropriate when the subject is the system or practice of imperial expansion rather than a particular person or group. Historically, the word can also describe the policies of powerful states, including Britain, France, Russia, Japan, and the United States. Although the term is not exclusively negative in every historical context, present-day usage most often signals opposition to domination by a foreign power.
A person or group that advocates or practices the extension of one country's power over another country or territory.
"The newspaper portrayed the minister as an imperialist who sought control of distant territories."
Often used in political and historical discussion, generally with a critical or hostile connotation.
Relating to or favoring the political, economic, or military expansion of one country over another.
"The speech invoked anti-imperialist sentiment among the colonized population."
Common in compound phrases such as “imperialist ambitions,” “imperialist policy,” and “imperialist power.”
The standard plural noun form, used for individuals or groups that support imperial expansion.
"European imperialists competed for influence in Africa and Asia."
Imperialist descends from Latin imperium, meaning “command,” an etymology that neatly echoes a history of asserting power over others.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does imperialist come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century from the adjective imperial and the suffix -ist, originally meaning a supporter or advocate of imperial expansion. “Imperial” comes through Old French from Latin imperialis, which was derived from imperium, meaning “command” or “power” and, by extension, an empire or the Roman state. The same Latin root also underlies imperator, imperious, and the English word empire.
Related word forms
How imperialist is actually used
The noun is most common in political and historical contexts. The adjective is also used attributively, especially in expressions such as “imperialist ambitions” and “imperialist policy,” but “imperialism” is generally preferred when referring to the system of expansion itself.
Easily confused with imperialist
“Imperialist” usually names a person or describes an attitude, whereas “imperialistic” more commonly describes a policy, system, or outlook characterized by imperial expansion.