Empire — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun adjective /ˈem-ˌpī(-ə)r/ (noun) /ˈäm-ˌpir/ (adjective) em·pire

Meaning & Definition of Empire

Empire (noun)

  1. a major political unit having a territory of great extent or a number of territories or peoples under a single sovereign authority; especially, one having an emperor as chief of state
  2. the territory of such a political unit
  3. something resembling a political empire; especially, an extensive territory or enterprise under single domination or control

Empire (adjective)

  1. of, relating to, or characteristic of a style (as of clothing or furniture) popular in early 19th century France

Empire (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a group of businesses or enterprises under one control

    "the media mogul's empire consists of newspapers, TV stations, and cable companies"

    similar: conglomerate
    related: multinational, cartel, combination, combine, syndicate, trust, chain, association, corporation, organization, pool

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Empire

The most common words with a similar meaning to Empire:

conglomerate

Related Words for Empire

multinational, cartel, combination, combine, syndicate, trust, chain, association, corporation, organization, pool

Origin & Etymology of Empire

Middle English, "supreme power, position of an emperor, territory under an emperor's rule," borrowed from Anglo-French, going back to Latin imperium "authority over family members and slaves exercised by the head of a household, supreme administrative authority, dominion, power exercised by a Roman emperor," from imperāre "to give orders, exercise authority, hold political power" + -ium, deverbal suffix of function or state emperor

First known use: 14th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Empire

Words & Phrases Containing Empire

Empire Day, Holy Roman Empire, Second Empire

Frequently Asked Questions about Empire

What does "Empire" mean?

"Empire" means a major political unit having a territory of great extent or a number of territories or peoples under a single sovereign authority; especially, one having an emperor as chief of state. As an a noun and an adjective, it is defined as: a major political unit having a territory of great extent or a number of territories or peoples under a single sovereign authority; especially, one having an emperor as chief of state.

What is another word for "Empire"?

Other words for "Empire" include conglomerate. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Empire" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Empire"?

There are 12 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Empire". Common alternatives include conglomerate.

How do you use "Empire" in a sentence?

Examples of "Empire" in a sentence: "the media mogul's empire consists of newspapers, TV stations, and cable companies".

Is "Empire" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Empire" can be used as a noun and an adjective, depending on the context.

Is "Empire" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Empire" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Empire"?

"Empire" is pronounced /ˈem-ˌpī(-ə)r/ as a noun and /ˈäm-ˌpir/ as an adjective and divided into syllables as em·pire.

What is the origin of the word "Empire"?

"Empire" comes from Middle English, "supreme power, position of an emperor, territory under an emperor's rule," borrowed from Anglo-French, going back to Latin imperium "authority over family members and slaves exercised by the head of a household, supreme administrative authority, dominion, power exercised by a Roman emperor," from imperāre "to give orders, exercise authority, hold political power" + -ium, deverbal suffix of function or state emperor. First known use: 14th century.