great power

noun

often capitalized G&P
: one of the nations that figure most decisively in international affairs : superpower

Examples of great power in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web China’s support for Palestinians appears to be mostly superficial, and even its vague peace plan puts most of the onus on the U.N., not Beijing, giving it the future flexibility to pivot on this issue and leave the Palestinians once more without a great power. Simone Lipkind, TIME, 19 June 2024 The danger of an accidental launch grows when great powers keep their nuclear weapons on launch-ready alert, as the United States and Russia still do today. Editorial Board, Washington Post, 17 June 2024 Germany celebrated its dominance in Europe and insisted on its rights as a great power, dismissing concerns about rules and norms of international behavior. Odd Arne Westad, Foreign Affairs, 13 June 2024 With great power comes an awful lot of noise, particularly on start-up. Alex Goy, Ars Technica, 12 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for great power 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'great power.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of great power was in 1660

Dictionary Entries Near great power

Cite this Entry

“Great power.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20power. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

great power

noun
: one of the nations that have the greatest influence, resources, and military strength in the world

More from Merriam-Webster on great power

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