Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /əˌnɛkˈseɪʃən/
KK: /æˈnɛkseɪʃən/
Definition
The act of adding a territory to a larger area, often by force or legal agreement.
Example
The annexation of the region led to significant political tensions.
Conversation

Did you hear about the recent annexation in that country?

Yeah, it seems to be causing quite a stir among the locals.

I can’t believe how quickly the government is moving on this annexation.

Right? It's like they’re trying to expand their influence overnight.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
acquisition
addition
incorporation
Antonyms
secession
division
detachment
Root Explanation
Annexation is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "nexio" (meaning to bind or tie). The word describes the act of binding or attaching something to a larger entity, such as territory being added to a country.
Memory Tip
Think of 'binding' something 'to' another — that's why annexation means to attach or add territory.
Visually Confused Words
reannexation
proannexation
nonannexation
disannexation
nonexaction
antiannexation
nonexpiation
panelation