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.

---

Etymology

Origin of major party

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

I do think Americans might be surprised to hear you can ban a major party.

From Slate

In conversations with pollsters, politicians and business leaders, the consensus was clear: despite leading in most polls, Bolsonaro could not win; he lacked the machinery of a major party and his support would quickly fade once television campaigning began.

From BBC

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

For those who may have forgotten, “60 Minutes” features interviews with candidates topping each major party’s ticket, coinciding with every presidential election.

From Salon

"We are sorry that we have lost 2% of our branch chairs, some of whom failed vetting. But we're the only major party that does this sort of vetting."

From BBC