Dominance (ethology)

Dominance in the context of biology and anthropology is the state of having high social status relative to other individuals, who react submissively to dominant individuals. The opposite of dominance is submissiveness. The dominant individual in a group may exert control over others.

Dominance hierarchies are found in many animals, including primates such as human beings. In animal groups, the dominant individual is the leader. Dominance is often won through battles or displays of dominance. The dominant position and gaining dominance is linked to mating in many animals.