hegemon
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of hegemon
First recorded in 1900–05, hegemon is from the Greek word hēgemṓn leader, guide
Explanation
A hegemon is a leading or major power. The United States has long been a hegemon in world politics. If you enjoy an edge over people who would otherwise be your peers, you might be a hegemon: that is, someone who enjoys hegemony, a predominating influence over others. Hegemons are powerful entities. In America, big business is a hegemon. In computers, Apple is a hegemon. For a long time in the NBA, Michael Jordan was a hegemon. Only the powerful can claim to be hegemons. This word suggests dominance and often a little more power than others would prefer.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Pollen-Isherwood story provides a lesson about the danger of decadence for the reigning hegemon in the face of a rising challenger.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026
Frothy markets will bounce again, and we all will wait for the next episode of mad hegemon.
From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026
The U.S. has been the undisputed economic hegemon in Latin America for most of the region’s post-independence history.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2025
But that’s the cost of being the global hegemon.
From Slate • Jan. 6, 2025
This was Ts'u's first appearance as effective hegemon, but her official debut alone did not take place till 538.
From Ancient China Simplified by Parker, Edward Harper
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
