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

Since every major party presidential candidate had voluntarily released their tax returns over the past four decades, it was assumed he would follow suit.

From Salon • May 25, 2026

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

He believes that larger structures would mean a bigger workload and "exclude" independents who are not professional politicians with the backing of a major party.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2025

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