Langimage
English

colony

|col/o/ny|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈkɑː.lə.ni/

🇬🇧

/ˈkɒl.ə.ni/

controlled settlement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'colony' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'colonia,' where 'colere' meant 'to cultivate or inhabit.'

Historical Evolution

'colonia' transformed into the Old French word 'colonie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'colony' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a settlement or farm,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a territory under control of another country.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a country or area under the full or partial political control of another country and occupied by settlers from that country.

India was once a British colony.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a group of people of one nationality or ethnic group living in a foreign city or country.

There is a large American colony in Paris.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 3

a group of animals, insects, or plants of the same type living together.

A colony of ants was found under the rock.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35