colonies

word · lemma: colony

Definition

Groups of people or areas controlled by a distant country, usually used to talk about history or animals living together in one place.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used in historical and scientific contexts. 'Colonies' refers to territories controlled by another country or groups of organisms living together (like 'ant colonies'). Do not confuse with 'colonists' (people) or 'colonial' (adjective).

Example Sentences

Colonies were common in the 18th century.

basic

There are many ant colonies in the garden.

basic

The British established colonies in many countries.

basic

Some colonies quickly became independent nations.

natural

Bees build their colonies in hidden places.

natural

Scientists discovered new bacterial colonies in the lab yesterday.

natural