ascendancy

noun

as·​cen·​dan·​cy ə-ˈsen-dən(t)-sē 

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.

Synonyms of ascendancy

• dominance
• domination
• dominion
• supremacy
• sovereignty
• reign

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

Though Rutinel does not identify as a socialist, Kiros’s ascendancy — the first major socialist victory outside of New York this cycle — is likely to provide ample fodder for Evans and his allies in the heavily Latino district. — James A. Downs, The Washington Examiner, 1 July 2026

Sip & Guzzle’s ascendancy in the bar world has been swift and absolute. — Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

All together, the results demonstrated the fragility of an Establishment imprimatur, the power of the New York Mayor’s blessing, and the ascendancy of socialism. — Philip Elliott, Time, 24 June 2026

Story noted that Rodríguez’s political ascendancy happened under Maduro. — Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ascendancy

• ascendency
• dependency
• independency
• interdependency
• superintendency
• pendency
• tendency

Kids Definition

ascendancy

noun

as·​cen·​dan·​cy ə-ˈsen-dən-sē 

: controlling influence