Definition of hegemony. 1 : preponderant influence or authority over others : domination battled for hegemony in Asia. 2 : the social, cultural, ideological, or economic influence exerted by a dominant group. Other Words from hegemony Synonyms Did You Know?

Hegemony refers to the dominance by either a social group or a country over others. The dominance may either be economic, political, or military. The term originated from the Greek word “hegemon” meaning “leader” or simply “dominance over.”