To rule or control others in a harsh, arrogant, or tyrannical manner; to behave as a despot.
From Dutch 'domineren' or from Latin 'dominari' (to rule) combined with the suffix '-eer' (forming verbs with a disparaging sense, as in profiteer, racketeer). The Dutch influence suggests this word entered English through trade or military contact in the 16th-17th centuries.
The word 'domineer' specifically implies not just control, but *mean* control—you can 'rule' justly, but when you 'domineer,' you're being a bully about it, which is why the '-eer' suffix in English often carries a negative connotation (profiteer, racketeer, auctioneer all suggest someone exploiting their position).
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