Hegemony
hardNeutral tonehih-JEM-uh-nee
noun
Definition
dominance of one group or state over others
Memory hook
HEGEMONY sounds like 'HE-GEM-only'βimagine one country saying 'HE owns the only GEM,' dominating all the rest; that's hegemony.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
βFor decades the empire maintained its hegemony over neighboring trade routes.β
βCritics challenged the cultural hegemony that marginalized minority voices.β
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
βFor decades the empire maintained its ______ over neighboring trade routes.β
Show answer
hegemony
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Hegemony is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "dominance" or "supremacy" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "subordination".
Related GRE Words
aggrandize
To increase the power, status, or wealth of; to make appear greater
circumscribe
to restrict or limit the bounds of
redoubtable
formidable, especially as an opponent; commanding respect or fear
usurp
to seize power, position, or rights without legitimate authority
authority
A person with extensive knowledge in a field; the power to give orders or make decisions
insurgent
rising in active revolt against authority
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