1. The policy extending a nation's authority by territorial gain, or by the establishment of economic and political dominance over other nations
   "The 19th century saw the rise of European imperialism in Africa and Asia"
    
2. A political orientation that advocates imperial interests
   "The 19th century saw the height of European imperialism in Africa"
    
3. Any instance of aggressive extension of authority
   "The company's rapid expansion into foreign markets was seen as a form of economic imperialism"

Derived forms: imperialisms

Type of: control, foreign policy, ideology, mythos, political orientation, political theory

Encyclopedia: Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism