preponderance

noun

pre·​pon·​der·​ance pri-ˈpän-d(ə-)rən(t)s 

1

: a superiority in weight, power, importance, or strength

2

a

: a superiority or excess in number or quantity

b

: majority

Synonyms of preponderance

• dominance
• superiority
• distinction
• reputation

Examples of preponderance in a Sentence

not since Rome in its glory days had a nation enjoyed such overwhelming military preponderance

a preponderance of the evidence points to the guilt of the defendant

Recent Examples on the Web

Current statute requires only a preponderance of the evidence, or more likely than not. —Keaton Ross, Oklahoma Watch, 23 Jan. 2026

Placating didn’t work The hardest and slowest threat balancing is the military sort, because America’s preponderance in hard power is so overwhelming. —Andreas Kluth, Twin Cities, 22 Jan. 2026

One of the pain points that has thwarted textile-to-textile recycling at scale is the preponderance of elastane that’s blended into everything from denim to leggings. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 20 Jan. 2026

After spending the preponderance of last season in the minors, Viel made the Bruins’ opening-night roster. —Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 16 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1681, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

preponderance

noun

pre·​pon·​der·​ance pri-ˈpän-d(ə-)rən(t)s 

: a greater quantity, number, weight, or importance

the preponderance of evidence suggests that the accused is guilty