great power

noun

often capitalized G&P
: one of the nations that figure most decisively in international affairs : superpower

Examples of great power in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Government wields great power, and if left unchecked, can have disastrous results for citizens. Louis Casiano, Fox News, 28 Nov. 2024 The letter, signed by Republican Rep. John Moolenaar, who chairs the committee, and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, the panel’s top Democrat, highlights the growing scrutiny on Hong Kong in the escalating great power rivalry between the US and China. Nectar Gan, CNN, 26 Nov. 2024 The Framers of the Constitution were clearly concerned about maintaining a legislative check on executive authority and the possibility of putting truly terrible individuals in positions of great power and influence. Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 16 Nov. 2024 Many fans view Swift, who is surely one of the most influential celebrities on the planet, as the bearer of great power and responsibility, and expect the singer to be more politically outspoken. Dani Di Placido, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for great power 

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of great power was in 1660

Dictionary Entries Near great power

Cite this Entry

“Great power.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20power. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

great power

noun
: one of the nations that have the greatest influence, resources, and military strength in the world

More from Merriam-Webster on great power

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!