Meaning

• The fifth major tone of a musical scale (five major steps above the note in question); thus G is the dominant of C, A of D, and so on.

• The triad built on the dominant tone.

• A gene that is dominant.

• A species or organism that is dominant.

• (BDSM) The dominating partner in sadomasochistic sexual activity.

Meaning

• Ruling; governing; prevailing

  "The dominant party controlled the government."

• Predominant, common, prevalent, of greatest importance.

  "The dominant plants of the Carboniferous were lycopods and early conifers."

• Designating the follicle which will survive atresia and permit ovulation.