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.
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.