expansionism

noun

ex·​pan·​sion·​ism ik-ˈspan(t)-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce expansionism (audio)
: a policy or practice of expansion and especially of territorial expansion by a nation
expansionist noun
expansionist adjective
or less commonly expansionistic

Examples of expansionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Facing the threat of Chinese expansionism in the long term will require India not only to manufacture better military equipment and engage in nimble diplomacy but also to embrace the concept of comprehensive economic security. Harsh V. Pant, Foreign Affairs, 14 Nov. 2024 Seasoned diplomats worry that retreating from that posture would enable autocrats around the world, including Vladimir Putin and his aims of Russian expansionism. Eric Cortellessa, TIME, 5 Nov. 2024 The biggest threat to national security is China's aggressive expansionism. Laura Gersony, The Arizona Republic, 6 Sep. 2024 At the same time, by propping up Moscow’s expansionism, Beijing is keeping NATO in check and distracting the United States from paying attention to the Indo-Pacific and Taiwan. Liana Fix, Foreign Affairs, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for expansionism 

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of expansionism was in 1899

Dictionary Entries Near expansionism

Cite this Entry

“Expansionism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expansionism. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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