'hegemony' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'hēgemonia,' where 'hēgemōn' meant 'leader' or 'guide.'

'hēgemonia' transformed into the Latin word 'hegemonia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'hegemony' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'leadership or guidance,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'dominance or control.'