dominant
UK: ˈdɒmɪnənt | US: ˈdɑːmɪnənt
adj. having power or influence over others
adj. most noticeable or important
adj. (genetics) controlling the expression of a trait
dominant = domin<rule> + ant<adjective suffix>
- domin (from Latin dominari, meaning "to rule, dominate")
- ant (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, indicating "performing or causing an action")
Etymology Origin:
The word "dominant" traces back to the Latin dominari ("to rule"), rooted in dominus ("master"). It entered English via Old French dominant, retaining its core sense of control or superiority. The suffix -ant (from Latin -ans/-antem) converts verbs into adjectives, emphasizing the ongoing nature of dominance. Historically, it described feudal lords' authority, later expanding to biology (e.g., dominant genes) and social hierarchies.
The dominant team won the championship effortlessly.
Yellow is the dominant color in her painting.
The dominant allele determines the trait's expression.
His dominant personality made him a natural leader.
The mountain stands dominant over the valley.