1965, in reference to a policy of political domination, on model of imperialism; see hegemony + -ism.

"ruling, predominant, supreme," 1650s, from Latinized form of Greek hēgemonikos "ready to lead, capable of command," from hēgemon "leader, an authority" (see hegemony). Earlier in same sense was hegemonical (1610s).

1897, originally with reference to the position of Great Britain in the world, from Greek hēgemon "an authority, leader, sovereign" (see hegemony).