C2verbformalconflicthistory
US/əˈneks/
UK/əˈneks/
to take control of a country or area and make it part of your own, usually by force
In context
The empire annexed several small kingdoms along its border.
Most countries refused to recognize the decision to annex the region.
The island was annexed in the late nineteenth century.
Words that go with annex
verb + noun
- annex territoryInternational law does not allow states to annex territory by force.
- annex landSettlers continued to annex land from local farmers.
- annex the regionLeaders warned that any attempt to annex the region would lead to sanctions.
adverb + verb
- illegally annexThe UN said the region had been illegally annexed.
- formally annexThe kingdom was formally annexed after the treaty.