Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

domineering

[dom-uh-neer-ing] / ˌdɒm əˈnɪər ɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
oppressive, authoritarian
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arrogant autocratic bossy dictatorial imperious overbearing tyrannical
WEAK
coercive crack-the-whip despotic egotistic high-handed imperative imperial in driver's seat insolent iron-handed on high horse peremptory
Antonyms
STRONGEST
democratic humble servile
WEAK
submissive surrendering yielding

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In fact he is the opposite — a domineering strongman who seeks to bully everyone around him into compliance.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

Helen, the oldest sibling, is a domineering homemaker who has appointed herself keeper of the family recipes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

Highlights include a pair of shoes worn by the domineering Miss Piggy in a "Muppets" movie, as well as puppets from "Fraggle Rock" and characters from the Netflix series "The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance."

From Barron's • Nov. 20, 2025

"It's a very, very controlling and coercive and domineering tactic" which requires "wider awareness," he added.

From BBC • Jul. 3, 2025

Then there’s the domineering Kennedy Airport air traffic controllers ordering the planes around.

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell