WordGarden.iodominant
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɒmɪnənt/
US
- /ˈdɑmənənt/
Meanings
Adjective
having the most power, influence, or importance
assertive or controlling toward other people
expressed when only one copy of a gene or allele is present
More meaningsFewer meanings
most abundant or influential in an ecological community
Noun
a person who takes the controlling role in a sexual or intimate power dynamic
the fifth note or chord of a musical scale
Beyond the definition
Think of a lion in the savanna - that's dominant. It means having power and control over others, or being the most noticeable or important thing in a situation. A dominant color in a painting might be blue, meaning it's used more than any other color and sets the overall tone. In genetics, a dominant gene is one whose effect is usually seen even when only one copy is present.
You can be dominant - like a dominant athlete or leader - or something can be dominant - like a dominant industry in a region. Sometimes it just means "most important," as in "water is the dominant feature of this landscape." It's all about being on top, whether through strength, influence, or clear presence.
The word "dominant" describes something that controls, prevails, or has significant influence over others. It's a concept that appears across many fields, from biology and genetics to social dynamics and even design.
In nature, a dominant animal is the one that holds the highest rank in a group, often securing access to resources like food and mates. Think of a social group in which one animal leads and has first access to what it needs. In genetics, a dominant gene masks the effect of a recessive gene, meaning its trait is usually expressed when one copy is present.
But "dominant" isn't limited to the natural world. Socially, it can describe someone who exerts control over others, though this usage sometimes carries negative connotations. A dominant personality might be assertive and commanding. Economically, a dominant company is one that controls a large share of the market.
It also describes something that stands out or prevails in a particular context. "Red is the dominant color in this painting" means red is most prominent. "The dominant theme in her novels is loss." Sometimes it simply implies importance: "Agriculture remains the dominant industry in this region."
So, whether describing power dynamics, genetic traits, artistic expression, or economic influence, dominant signifies a position of control, prevalence, or significant impact. It's about being at the top and staying there.
Examples
- 1
Sports
Their team was dominant in the league for most of the 1990s.
- 2
Visual art
Blue is the dominant color in the painting.
- 3
International business
English is the dominant language in international business.
- 4
Decision-making
She played a dominant role in the final decision.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Buying decisions
Price is still the dominant factor in most buyers' decisions.
- 6
Personality
He has a very dominant personality and expects everyone to follow his lead.
- 7
Handedness
She injured her dominant hand, so even simple tasks became difficult.
- Phrasedominant hand
the hand you naturally use more
- 8
Genetics
In some disorders, a single dominant gene can cause the condition.
- Domaindominant gene
a gene that affects the result even if only one parent passes it on
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- dominant force
- dominant player
- dominant position
- dominant culture
Word family
Explore
- power hierarchy
- hegemony
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- dominantnounadjective
Forms
- dominantspluralnounadjective