preponderant
UK: prɪˈpɒndərənt | US: prɪˈpɑːndərənt
adj. having superior weight, force, importance, or influence
adj. predominant; exceeding in quantity or degree
preponderant = pre<before> + ponder<weigh> + ant<adjective suffix>
- pre (Latin prae): Prefix meaning "before" or "in front of."
- ponder (Latin ponderare): Root meaning "to weigh" or "consider."
- ant (Latin -antem): Adjective suffix indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin praeponderare ("to outweigh"), preponderant combines pre- (emphasizing superiority) with ponderare (to weigh). The word originally described physical weight but evolved metaphorically to denote dominance in influence, number, or importance. The suffix -ant solidifies its adjectival form, reflecting a lasting imbalance in favor of one side.
The preponderant evidence convinced the jury of his guilt.
In the ecosystem, larger species often play a preponderant role.
Her preponderant influence shaped the company’s policies.
The report highlighted the preponderant use of fossil fuels.
Despite objections, his opinion remained preponderant in the discussion.