noun
dominion
duh-MIN-yun/dəˈmɪnjən/
Authority to rule over a territory.
The empire exercises dominion over several islands in the region.
Etymology
Latin dominium meant 'ownership' and came from dominus, 'master.' A master's power over possessions provides the connection to a ruler's authority and the territory or people under it.
In context
when the entire territory of Wales came under English Dominion so the fact that it has been preserved is is incredible
More examples
- Two kingdoms compete for dominion over the valley.
- The rebels refuse to accept the crown's dominion.
- The king's dominions include several distant provinces.
Forms
dominion · dominions
Similar words
- sovereignty
- Emphasizes supreme, independent authority rather than control alone.
- rule
- A more everyday term for exercising authority over people.
- control
- Broader than dominion; need not involve governing a territory.