hegemon

American  

[hej-uh-mon] / ˈhɛdʒ əˌmɒn /

noun

1. a person, nation, etc., that has or exercises hegemony.

---

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

This is a nervous regional hegemon making sure its neighbors know their place.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

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

U.S. intervention in Latin America dates back more than 200 years, when President James Monroe declared that the United States would reign as the hemispheric hegemon.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 1, 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