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Definitions

in the driver's seat

VERB
domineer
Synonyms
STRONG
bend bluster browbeat bulldoze bully dominate hector intimidate menace overbear predominate preponderate prevail reign rule swagger threaten tyrannize
WEAK
be in the saddle boss around call the shots henpeck keep under thumb kick around lead by the nose push the buttons rule the roost run the show run things throw weight around
Antonyms
STRONG
assist help leave alone serve submit surrender
WEAK
follow yield

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.

Stick shifts are also slower than their auto-shifted counterparts from 0-60 mph—due to the fleshy, fallible widgets sitting in the driver’s seat.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

For months, Netflix has been in the driver’s seat of an industry-shaking effort to acquire Warner Bros.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 20, 2026

Despite his glamorous brush with fame, Ellis has not given up the day job, he is still in the driver's seat on a London Underground train.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2026

Leeds’ body, still in the driver’s seat of the SUV with her hands on her lap, could be seen in some of the images.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2025

Her shoulder banged against the door before she centered herself in the driver’s seat.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx