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

The hill is located at a strategic position.

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

Further in the past, the rocky promontory on which the Westin sits was a naval installation, sited there because of its strategic location at the entry to a natural harbor. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Nov. 2026

So, what did Wall Street analysts take away from the entertainment conglomerate’s first financial and strategic update since the WBD deal close? — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 10 Nov. 2026

Each of our strategic growth engines made significant progress this quarter, drawing a new generation of fans to the brand. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2026

Furthermore, Vance proposing a shift in our relationship with Israel overlooks key strategic benefits. — Chicago Tribune, 10 Nov. 2026

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