superpower

American  

[soo-per-pou-er] / ˈsu pərˌpaʊ ər /

noun

1. an extremely powerful nation, especially one capable of influencing international events and the acts and policies of less powerful nations.

2. power pow power greater in scope or magnitude than that which is considered natural or has previously existed.

3. power, pow, power, especially mechanical or electric power, pow, power, on an extremely large scale secured by the linking together of a number of separate power pow power systems, with a view to more efficient and economical generation and distribution.

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superpower British  

/ ˈsuːpəˌpaʊə /

noun

1. an extremely powerful state, such as the US

2. extremely high power, esp electrical or mechanical

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Other Word Forms

• superpowered adjective

Etymology

Origin of superpower

First recorded in 1920–25; super- + power

Example Sentences

His minority government has also announced a series of major projects in recent months to make Canada an "energy superpower."

From Barron's

In that sense, their decision to move on is neither surprising nor unprecedented - even if Gloucester are not a European superpower or the rugby equivalent of a 'galactico' destination.

From BBC

The 20th century that “Resurrection” chronicles was a pivotal period for China, bringing to a close the Qing Dynasty and ushering in the rise of a communist superpower.

From Los Angeles Times

I recall one day at school, when a friend suggested things might be more complicated in the superpower rivalry.

From The Wall Street Journal

That is an intolerable risk for a superpower.

From MarketWatch