great power

noun

variants often Great Power
Synonyms of great powernext
: 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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But with great power comes great responsibility. Ryan Cormier, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026 In that speech, Carney condemned economic coercion by great powers against smaller countries, and received widespread praise. Rob Gillies, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026 In that speech, Carney condemned economic coercion by great powers against smaller countries and received widespread praise for his remarks. ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026 The current reality also underlines the idea that external intervention and privileging war over diplomacy has made conflict resolution ever more difficult in a region with a long history of imperial expansion, great power competition and bitter political divides. Ioana Emy Matesan, The Conversation, 9 Apr. 2026 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 23 Apr. 2026.

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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