What does imperially mean?
Imperially is an adverb meaning “in an imperial manner” or “with the authority, power, and grandeur of an empire.” It may describe the way an emperor or imperial government acts, especially when that authority is centralized, absolute, or imposed on distant territories. The word is commonly used in historical and political writing: an area might be described as imperially governed, governed by officials appointed by an emperor or imperial government. It can also indicate that an action is carried out for imperial interests or according to imperial policy. Because of its associations with empire and autocratic rule, the word often carries a formal and somewhat critical or historical tone. In less formal writing, alternatives such as “in an imperial way,” “royally,” or “autocratically” may be more direct, depending on the intended meaning.
adverbIn a manner characteristic of an empire or imperial authority, especially with power, grandeur, or centralized control. It can also mean according to imperial standards or interests.
- In the manner of an empire or imperial power; with imperial authority, grandeur, or control.
- According to the interests, standards, or authority of an empire.
"The territory was governed imperially, with appointed officials exercising broad powers."
"The court remained imperially splendid despite the emperor's declining health."
"The province's resources were distributed imperially, with no consultation of local communities."
To act imperially is to rule or act as if the world bends to a single imperial will.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does imperially come from?
The word derives from the adjective imperial, which comes from Latin imperialis, meaning “of an empire” or “of an emperor.” The underlying root is imperium, meaning “command, power, or rule,” the source of words including empire, emperor, and empiric. Imperially entered English as an adverb in the early 17th century, during the period when the adjective and the political terminology of empire were becoming established in English.
How imperially is actually used
This is a relatively formal and literary word. It is often used in historical or political contexts and can suggest centralized, autocratic, or grandiose power.