Definition

Noun: A position of superior power, influence, or control over another person, group, or situation. It describes a state of dominance or prevailing authority.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The general's strategic brilliance gave his army a clear ascendency over its enemies.
  • The company gained market ascendency through innovation and aggressive marketing.
  • Her intellectual ascendency in the debate was undeniable; no one could counter her arguments effectively.

Advanced Usage

• "to have ascendency over": To possess controlling power or influence over someone or something.
  • The coach had a strong moral ascendency over his players, inspiring them to great discipline.
• "to gain/lose ascendency": To acquire or forfeit a position of dominance.
  • The new political party is rapidly gaining ascendency in the polls.

Variants and Related Words

• Ascendancy (noun): The more common spelling variant, identical in meaning to "ascendency".
  • The empire was at the peak of its ascendancy.
• Ascendant (adjective/noun): (Adj.) Rising in power or influence. (N.) A position of dominance.
  • The ascendant faction within the party pushed for reform.

Synonyms

• Dominance: The state of being more powerful or important than others.
• Supremacy: The state of being superior to all others in authority, power, or status.
• Preeminence: The fact of surpassing all others; distinction.

Antonyms

• Subordination: The state of being lower in rank or position.
• Inferiority: The condition of being lower in status or quality.

Noun

1. the state that exists when one person or group has power over another
   • her apparent dominance of her husband was really her attempt to make him pay attention to her