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.
Becoming a great power has coincided with the need to underline the indigenous sources of Chinese greatness. Rana Mitter, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025 Clearly there’s great power in coordination between agents, and there’s space for humans to pitch in too. Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025 Pelosi still holds great power in the Democratic Party after being a large player in former President Joe Biden stepping down last year, with much of the party still holding great respect for her leadership. Lauren Green, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 18 Mar. 2025 For 400 years, the Eastern Mediterranean was the domain of two great powers: the Republic of Venice and the Ottoman Empire. Amy Crawford, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Great power.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20power. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

great power

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

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