dominance
dominance Lexical Profile
dominance Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The state or fact of having power, authority, or superior influence over others; supremacy or preeminence.
"The software company maintained its dominance in the global technology market for over a decade."
In genetics, the phenomenon whereby one allele of a gene masks or overrides the phenotypic expression of another allele at the same locus.
"Mendel's experiments with pea plants demonstrated the principle of genetic dominance in inherited traits."
In ecology, the degree to which one or a few species prevail in a biological community in terms of population size, biomass, or ecological impact.
"The dominance of oak trees in the woodland canopy shaped the growth of understory plants."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Dominance' generally denotes a state of superior influence, prevalence, or competitive position (e.g., market dominance), whereas 'domination' implies the active, often oppressive or forceful exercise of control over others.
• Rhymes for dominance
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 18th century from 'dominant', ultimately from Latin 'dominans' (ruling), the present participle of 'dominari' (to rule), from 'dominus' (lord or master).