Great Power

American  

noun

1. a nation that has exceptional military and economic strength, and consequently plays a major, often decisive, role in international affairs.

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Great Power British  

noun

1. a nation that has exceptional political influence, resources, and military strength

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Other Word Forms

• Great-Power adjective
• great-power adjective

Etymology

Origin of Great Power

First recorded in 1725–35

Example Sentences

“It’s like a cursed artifact that gives you great power to keep up with what’s going on, but at the cost of subtly corrupting your soul,” said the 38-year-old Providence College economics professor.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Great power competition in the region has only just begun,” according to an analysis of China’s Latin American stance by the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

From The Wall Street Journal

It helped Mr. Clinton’s characterization that he kept all the tapes in a sock drawer, and the judge pointed out that the Presidential Records Act gives former presidents great power to make these personal and presidential determinations.

From The Wall Street Journal

In January 2022, on the eve of the full-scale assault, he warned that Russia was not a Great Power and should not be appeased.

From The Wall Street Journal

While everyone on the tour is clearly working at maximum capacity, there's only one person at the front of it all - and what's the old cliche... with great power comes great responsibility?

From BBC