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
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Now, picture a great power—China—with a military to rival the US and fusion reactors that provide virtually unlimited energy. Wal Van Lierop, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025 Between 1500 and 1800, there was hardly a year when great powers weren’t enmeshed in some kind of war. Bryan Walsh, Vox, 26 May 2025 The Trump administration’s focus on Greenland – and China’s in recent years – come amid increasing focus on the Arctic as an arena for rivalry between the world’s great powers. Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 6 May 2025 Though, in the past, Lee has made comments critical of past U.S. foreign policy and appeared to suggest South Korea’s strategic neutrality in the great power rivalry between Washington and Beijing, in this campaign Lee has reaffirmed his support behind the U.S.-South Korea alliance. Jong Eun Lee, The Conversation, 29 May 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 13 Jun. 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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