Meaning & Definition of word "Dominant"
Dominant
/ˈdɑː.mə.nənt/
noun:
- 1. A dominant individual or species within a particular context or environment.
- Example: The dominant in the group often makes the decisions for the rest of the members.
adjective:
- 1. Most influential, powerful, or important.
- Example: In the animal kingdom, the lion is often seen as the dominant predator.
- 2. Genetically controlling the expression of a characteristic.
- Example: The dominant allele for brown eyes will be expressed over the recessive allele for blue eyes.
- 3. Pertaining to a chord that establishes the key in music.
- Example: In the key of C major, G is the dominant chord.
Etymology
●From Latin 'dominans', present participle of 'dominare', meaning 'to rule'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
dominant gene:
A gene that will produce a certain phenotype regardless of the other allele present.
dominant attitude:
A mindset characterized by assertiveness and confidence.
dominant culture:
The culture that is most widely accepted and practiced in a society.
Related Words
dominate:
To exert control or influence over; to command.
dominance:
The state of being dominant; control or influence over others.
dominion:
Sovereignty; control; the territory of a sovereign or government.
Slang Meanings of dominant
Meaning: Top dog
● Example Sentence: In any group project, she always wants to be the top dog.
Meaning: Boss
● Example Sentence: He acts like he’s the boss just because he’s the dominant one in the group.