a monarchy with an emperor as head of state
"The new dynasty finally established its empire when the general crowned himself emperor in the capital city."
a group of diverse companies under common ownership and run as a single organization
"The merger created an empire where dozens of unrelated tech firms operate under one central leadership team."
an eating apple that somewhat resembles a McIntosh; used as both an eating and a cooking apple
"The farmer recommended buying the Empire apples for our Sunday roast since they hold their shape well while still being sweet enough to eat raw."
A political unit, typically having an extensive territory or comprising a number of territories or nations (especially one comprising one or more kingdoms) and ruled by a single supreme authority.
"The ancient empire stretched from the Mediterranean Sea to the borders of India under the rule of its sole emperor."
In plain English: An empire is a large group of countries and lands ruled by one powerful leader or government.
"The Roman Empire once controlled vast territories across Europe, Africa, and Asia."
Usage: Use "empire" to describe a vast political entity ruled by a single sovereign power that controls multiple territories or nations. It is not used for smaller states or independent countries with limited borders.
Alternative letter-case form of Empire.
"The hotel's grand lobby, with its gilded mirrors and sweeping chandeliers, perfectly captures the opulent style of Napoleon's era."
Following or imitating a style popular during the First French Empire (1804–1814).
"The empire-builders constructed grand structures to show their power."
Usage: Use "Empire" only when describing clothing or architecture that mimics the opulent styles of Napoleon's France. Do not use it to describe any large political entity, as that is its standard noun form.
A census-designated place in Stanislaus County, California, United States.
"After moving from San Jose to Empire last year, I finally found a quiet neighborhood in Stanislaus County where the schools are excellent."
The word "empire" entered English via the Old French empere, which was borrowed from the Latin imperium. Originally meaning "command" or "control," it derives from the verb imperare ("to order"), itself formed from the prefix in- and the root parare ("to make ready").