strategic

adjective

stra·​te·​gic strə-ˈtē-jik 

1

: of, relating to, or marked by strategy

a strategic retreat

2

a

: necessary to or important in the initiation, conduct, or completion of a strategic plan

b

: required for the conduct of war and not available in adequate quantities domestically

strategic materials

c

: of great importance within an integrated whole or to a planned effect

emphasized strategic points

3

: designed or trained to strike an enemy at the sources of its military, economic, or political power

a strategic bomber

strategical

strə-ˈtē-ji-kəl 

adjective

strategically

strə-ˈtē-ji-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of strategic in a Sentence

The bridges have great strategic value.

The hill is located at a strategic position.

Recent Examples on the Web

Streamlining agendas and providing concise pre-read materials can allow directors to prepare thoughtfully and focus on strategic issues. —Lara Abrash, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2025

But 11 days later, in a surprise move, Taylor and her lawyers made the strategic decision to voluntarily withdraw her entire lawsuit. —Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2025

Representatives of both United and Raine Group first met to ‘discuss potential strategic opportunities’ in June 2022. —Dan Sheldon, New York Times, 11 Oct. 2025

Campbell-Pretty knew a more strategic approach was required. —Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 11 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for strategic

• geostrategic
• hemiplegic
• quadriplegic

Kids Definition

strategic

adjective

stra·​te·​gic strə-ˈtē-jik 

1

: of, relating to, or showing strategy

strategic value of the position

a strategic retreat

2

a

: required for the conduct of war

strategic supplies

b

: of great importance within a whole or for a planned purpose

mentioned strategic points

3

: designed or trained to strike at what makes an enemy powerful

strategic bomber

strategical

-ji-kəl 

adjective

strategically

-ji-k(ə-)lē 

adverb