power vacuum

[pou-er vak-yoom, -yoo-uhm, -yuhm]

noun

1. a situation where there is a lack of leadership in a government or organization, often because an existing leader has left or been lost.

   The power vacuum left by the chairman’s sudden departure has created a bitter contest for control.

Word History and Origins

Origin of power vacuum¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

When he died from cancer in July 2016 there was no obvious successor but the power vacuum he left behind was eventually filled by his nephew, Steven "Bonzo" Daniel.

From BBC

In their wake, American troops left behind a power vacuum that was swiftly and easily filled by the Taliban, who took control of the capital city, Kabul, in August 2021.

From BBC

Following the dismantling of such groups, a power vacuum has emerged.

From BBC

Amid this power vacuum, two alternative power centers have emerged.

From Los Angeles Times

Few shots were fired, but Crimea was seized at gunpoint during a power vacuum.

From BBC