major party

American  

noun

1. a political party with enough electoral strength to periodically gain control of the government or to effectively oppose the party in power.

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Etymology

Origin of major party

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

It is also one of the first times in recent British political history that neither major party has finished in the top two of such a vote.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

Though Harris’ presidential bid was historic, becoming the first Black woman to be nominated by a major party, she ultimately failed to be elected as the country’s top executive.

From Salon • Aug. 23, 2025

Into the summer, Kennedy continued to insist that the American people would eventually turn to him and away from the major party candidates.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 1, 2024

In 2016, Hillary Clinton became the first female presidential nominee of a major party.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2024

What’s more, he had achieved this near-victory without the support of a major party.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson