Colonially, as an adverb, refers to something that pertains to or is associated with colonialism, which is the practice of establishing and maintaining colonies by a nation in order to exploit their resources, expand their political influence, or establish economic domination. The word colonialism is rooted in the term "colony," which denotes a settlement established by a group of people from a mother country in a distant or foreign land.
In the context of describing something as being "colonially," it implies a connection to the colonial era, often characterized by the colonial powers exerting control over territories, imposing their own political, economic, and cultural systems, extracting resources, and influencing local populations. The term can encompass various aspects, such as governance, trade, immigration, or social structures, that were shaped or influenced by colonial powers. It may also refer to the attitudes, policies, or practices reminiscent of colonialism.
For instance, "colonially inspired architecture" could describe buildings designed in a style reminiscent of the architectural features prevalent during colonial times. Similarly, "colonially influenced cuisine" may refer to dishes or cooking techniques that have been adopted or adapted from the culinary traditions of the colonizers. Ultimately, the term "colonially" highlights a connection to the historical period and practices associated with colonialism, be it in terms of physical structures, cultural expressions, or societal imprints.
