ascendancy

noun

as·​cen·​dan·​cy ə-ˈsen-dən(t)-sē How to pronounce ascendancy (audio)
variants or less commonly ascendency
: governing or controlling influence : domination

Did you know?

In the course of a year, the sun appears to pass through the twelve constellations of the zodiac in sequence, and all the planets also lie close to the solar path. The constellation and planet that are just rising, or ascendant, above the eastern horizon in the sun's path at the moment of a child's birth are said by astrologers to exercise a lifelong controlling influence over the child. This is the idea that lies at the heart of ascendancy, though the word today no longer hints at supernatural powers.

Examples of ascendancy in a Sentence

the ascendancy of the government a book chronicling the ascendancy of fascism in Europe after World War I
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.
Her campaign has been framed in a progressive light, giving the Academy the chance to protest the ascendancy of anti-trans sentiment under the new Trump administration. Julian Sancton, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Jan. 2025 If American leaders continue to wring their hands over China’s ascendancy instead of taking these crucial steps, Washington’s strategic advantage could quickly erode. Jude Blanchette, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 Trump’s decision to free him is just one example of the ascendancy of the crypto lobby in the new Administration. Caroline Mimbs Nyce, The New Yorker, 27 Jan. 2025 The attack, analysts say, was a reflection of the ascendancy of hard-line leaders in the group advocating for violent conflict over long-term understandings with Israel. Adam Rasgon, New York Times, 20 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ascendancy 

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ascendancy was in 1641

Dictionary Entries Near ascendancy

Cite this Entry

“Ascendancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ascendancy. Accessed 14 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

ascendancy

noun
as·​cen·​dan·​cy ə-ˈsen-dən-sē How to pronounce ascendancy (audio)
: controlling influence

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