ascendant
Ascendant (adj) means rising in power, influence, or status; dominant. Example: “The party's ascendant wing pushed for bolder reforms.”
How to use ascendant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRising toward dominance or greater influence; often used in the fixed phrase "in the ascendant."
Fairly formal; common in political, business, and astrological writing.
Word forms
more ascendant comparative, ascendants plural, most ascendant superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The party's _____ wing pushed for bolder reforms.
Etymology
From Latin ascendens, the present participle of ascendere ("to climb, rise") — the same root as "ascend."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for ascendant
See all rhymes for ascendant →Frequently asked questions
What does “ascendant” mean?
The word “ascendant” means rising in power, influence, or status; dominant. In plain terms, rising toward dominance or greater influence; often used in the fixed phrase "in the ascendant.".
How do you pronounce “ascendant”?
“Ascendant” is pronounced uh-SEHNDNT (/əˈsɛndənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “ascendant” in a sentence?
Here is “ascendant” used in a sentence: “The party's ascendant wing pushed for bolder reforms.”
What part of speech is “ascendant”?
Depending on how it is used, “ascendant” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “ascendant” come from?
The word “ascendant” comes from Latin. From Latin ascendens, the present participle of ascendere ("to climb, rise") — the same root as "ascend.".
How many meanings does “ascendant” have?
“Ascendant” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: rising in power, influence, or status; dominant.