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Kingmaker - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A kingmaker is a person or group with significant influence who helps someone else rise to power, often without seeking the position themselves. They play a key role in leadership decisions.

kingmaker

/ˈkɪŋˌmeɪkər/ /ˈkɪŋˌmeɪkə/

Definition:

A person who influences the selection of a leader without seeking the position themselves.

Synonyms:

power broker, influencer, backroom dealer, political operator

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

follower, subordinate, underling

Common Collocations:

political kingmaker, corporate kingmaker, behind-the-scenes kingmaker

Derivatives:

kingmaking, kingmakers

Usage Tips:

Use "kingmaker" to describe someone who controls leadership choices indirectly, often in politics or business.

Common Phrases:

the power behind the throne, pulling the strings, a shadow ruler

Etymology:

Originates from "king" + "maker," first used in 15th-century politics to describe those who crowned monarchs.

Examples:

  • 1. The kingmaker quietly decided the next CEO.
  • 2. She acted as a kingmaker in the election campaign.
  • 3. The party relied on its kingmaker to choose a candidate.
  • 4. Corporate kingmakers often shape industry trends unnoticed.

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