empire builder

noun

1. a person who plans or works to extend dominion or control, as over territory, political organizations, or business enterprises.

empire-builder

noun

1. informal.
   a person who seeks extra power for its own sake, esp by increasing the number of his subordinates or staff

Derived Forms

• ˈempire-ˌbuilding, nounadjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of empire builder¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Risk is a classic game of strategy and world conquest, and this officially licensed 60th Anniversary Deluxe edition is the perfect gift for all the would-be empire builders in your life.

From Popular-Science

The ghost of the great Empire-builder rises before the astonished spectators, enquiring what trouble has overtaken his land.

From Project Gutenberg

The German Emperor had proved himself a great Empire-builder, but it was not his own empire that he was building.

From Project Gutenberg

"He's missed W——'s expression entirely," said the Empire Builder.

From Project Gutenberg

Paterson's idea was in reality that of a great empire-builder.

From Project Gutenberg

Here he met Rhodes and an association began which continued until the death of the empire builder.

From Project Gutenberg