Definition of predominantnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word predominant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of predominant are dominant, paramount, and preponderant. While all these words mean "superior to all others in influence or importance," predominant applies to something that exerts, often temporarily, the most marked influence.

a predominant emotion

When can dominant be used instead of predominant?

While in some cases nearly identical to predominant, dominant applies to something that is uppermost because ruling or controlling.

a dominant social class

When could paramount be used to replace predominant?

In some situations, the words paramount and predominant are roughly equivalent. However, paramount implies supremacy in importance, rank, or jurisdiction.

unemployment was the paramount issue in the campaign

In what contexts can preponderant take the place of predominant?

The words preponderant and predominant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, preponderant applies to an element or factor that outweighs all others in influence or effect.

preponderant evidence in her favor

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of predominant The Hightower family is closely connected with the worship of the Seven, the predominant faith of Westeros, and Ormund seems to be a model believer. Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 13 July 2026 Indigenous tzalam wood, leather, and polished lava stone are the predominant materials; earth tones and clean lines are the prevailing aesthetics. Flora Stubbs, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026 Matthew Harmon of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, representing law enforcement, the predominant users of ALPRs in the area. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick masonry and adobe block construction. Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for predominant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for predominant
Adjective
  • For the first time in almost a month, a large tanker last week began loading crude at the western terminal of Iran’s main export hub Kharg Island, Windward said.
    Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The team behind the project, presented during the second edition of Open Doors with a focus on films from Africa, was one of the two main winners of the Open Doors Grant.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 16 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The biggest takeaway from the Ravens’ dominant win over the Eagles was impressive showings from Baltimore’s rookie pass catchers.
    Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
  • Summary Claressa Shields captured the WBC and WBA middleweight titles with a dominant sixth-round TKO victory over Kaye Scott in Atlanta.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Voters across Connecticut are heading to the polls on Tuesday to vote for key primary races including governor and House seats.
    ABC NEWS, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Learn more about voter resources and details about key races in the WCCO 2026 primary election guide.
    Esme Murphy, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • ActiveCampaign Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Today, perhaps the foremost image of a moderate is that of a centrist on a left-right spectrum.
    Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Japan captain Warner Dearns said his lineup did everything possible to match it with the bigger Australian pack in the first half.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The Fireplace Shangri-la room is your own personal retreat, complete with an oversized soaking tub (big enough for even a tall girl like myself to enjoy) and separate shower.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Predominant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/predominant. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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