Do*min"ion (?), n. [LL. dominio, equiv. to L. dominium. See [Domain], [Dungeon].]

1.

Sovereign or supreme authority; the power of governing and controlling; independent right of possession, use, and control; sovereignty; supremacy.

I praised and honored him that liveth forever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion. Dan. iv. 34.

To choose between dominion or slavery. Jowett (Thucyd. ).

2.

Superior prominence; predominance; ascendency.

Objects placed foremost ought . . . have dominion over things confused and transient. Dryden.

3.

That which is governed; territory over which authority is exercised; the tract, district, or county, considered as subject; as, the dominions of a king. Also used figuratively; as, the dominion of the passions.

4. pl.

A supposed high order of angels; dominations. See [Domination], 3.

Milton.

By him were all things created . . . whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. Col. i. 16.

Syn. -- Sovereignty; control; rule; authority; jurisdiction; government; territory; district; region.

© [Webster 1913].

Dominion (definition)