Imperial

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Imperial

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

adjective and noun

Pronunciation

im-PEER-ee-ul  /ɪmˈpɪərɪəl/

Definition

Relating to an empire or its ruler; magnificent and imposing; of or relating to an emperor or empress. (noun) A size of paper, a small pointed beard, or in obsolete British measurements, the imperial system of weights and measures.

Plain meaning

Imperial means relating to an empire or emperor. Imperial power is the power of an empire. An imperial decree comes from an emperor. In everyday English, imperial also means magnificently large or imposing — imperial proportions, an imperial manner. The imperial system of measurement refers to the British system of inches, feet, yards, and miles (as opposed to the metric system). Imperial can also carry a critical connotation: imperial ambitions means the desire to rule over others.

Register

Varies considerably by context. Imperial as a neutral adjective (imperial capital, imperial dynasty) is standard in history and geography. Imperial as a critical term (imperial project, imperial violence) is standard in postcolonial studies and political critique. Imperial measurements is the neutral technical term for the British measurement system.