Controlling, ruling, or having power over something or someone; being the strongest or most important force in a situation.
From Latin 'dominari,' meaning to rule or have sovereignty. Related to 'dominus' (lord or master). The '-ing' form makes it a present participle.
In ecosystems, the 'dominant' species isn't always the biggest—it's the one that controls the most resources, which is why a small poison dart frog can dominate a rainforest canopy.
Dominating carries gendered power dynamics; women labeled 'dominating' face social punishment (ambitious men rewarded); reflects unequal power baseline.
Use 'directing,' 'leading,' 'assertive' with attention to whether same behavior receives gendered language in men vs. women.
["directing","leading","assertive","commanding"]
Feminist leadership scholars (Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In critics) highlighted double bind: women penalized for assertiveness men are praised for.
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