verb con·quer \ˈkäŋ-kər\

Definition of conquer




play \-k(ə-)riŋ\
  1. transitive verb
  2. 1 :  to gain or acquire by force of arms :  subjugate <conquer territory>

  3. 2 :  to overcome by force of arms :  vanquish <conquered the enemy>

  4. 3 :  to gain mastery over or win by overcoming obstacles or opposition <conquered the mountain>

  5. 4 :  to overcome by mental or moral power :  surmount <conquered her fear>

  6. intransitive verb
  7. :  to be victorious


play \-kər-ər\ noun

Examples of conquer in a sentence


  2. After her initial passionate prayer of thanks for the strength to conquer her vast disappointment, she stayed on her knees, the hassock comfortable … —James Clavell, Gai-Jin, (1993) 1994

  3. It used to be that men “conquered” mountains in a cacophony of gratuitous chest-thumping. —Tim Cahill, New York Times Book Review, 10 June 1990

  4. But however vile the movie, the sentiments it embodies are (as they say) American as apple pie: the west was something to be conquered and claimed. —Margaret Atwood, Survival, 1972

  5. The city was conquered by the ancient Romans.

  6. They conquered all their enemies.

  7. He finally conquered his drug habit.

  8. Scientists believe the disease can be conquered.

Origin and Etymology of conquer


First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of conquer


CONQUER Defined for English Language Learners


verb con·quer \ˈkäŋ-kər\

Definition of conquer for English Language Learners


  • : to defeat (someone or something) through the use of force

  • : to gain control of (a problem or difficulty) through great effort

CONQUER Defined for Kids


verb con·quer \ˈkäŋ-kər\

Definition of conquer for Students



  1. 1 :  to get or gain by force :  win by fighting

  2. 2 :  overcome 1 <She worked hard to conquer her fears.>

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up conquer? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).


rude, impolite, or socially unacceptable

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