Predominant

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /pɹɪˈdɒmɪnənt/

Definitions

1. Dominant in nature, commonly appearing or manifesting more forcefully than others in a given context or situation
2. Existing chiefly or mainly while holding a more significant position or impact compared to alternatives in various scenarios
3. Being the one that occurs most often or is seen most frequently in a particular environment or group ; exerting the greatest influence or control over others in a setting or situation

Etymology: "Predominant" carries its Latin roots on its face: "pre-" meaning "before" or "above," and "dominant," from Latin "dominari," to rule or be lord over. Put together, the word describes something that rules above the rest. The English adjective is inherited through Middle French "prédominant," which in turn descends from Medieval Latin "praedominans," the ancestor of the modern word. The core image is one of rank and command. Something predominant stands above its neighbours in influence, much as a lord stands above his subjects. That sense of authority shapes how the word is still used: a predominant colour in a painting, or a predominant view in a debate, is one that has taken the lead.

Synonyms: dominant, main, chief, principal, prevailing

Antonyms: minor, secondary, subordinate, insignificant, unimportant