coalition

noun

co·​a·​li·​tion ˌkō-ə-ˈli-shən How to pronounce coalition (audio)
Synonyms of coalition
1
a
: the act of coalescing : union
the coalition of water vapor into raindrops
b
: a body formed by the coalescing of originally distinct elements : combination
They formed a coalition with downtown merchants.
2
: a temporary alliance of distinct parties, persons, or states for joint action
A multiparty coalition ruled the country.
coalitionist
ˌkō-ə-ˈli-sh(ə-)nist How to pronounce coalition (audio)
noun

Synonyms of coalition

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Examples of coalition in a Sentence

The groups united to form a coalition. A multiparty coalition ruled the country. The group is working in coalition with other environmental groups.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Central States recently joined the Expanding ESOPs coalition, which includes nearly 100 organizations working together to grow employer ownership here in Arkansas and beyond by increasing awareness and improving policy. — Arkansas Online, 7 Sep. 2026 If the AfD doesn’t get an absolute majority in Sunday’s elections, all other parties could form a ragtag coalition to shut it out of power in the state. — Sebastian Shukla, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2026 On Friday evening, Meloni's coalition government, which took office in October 2022, held a rally in the port city of Bari to mark its becoming Italy's longest-serving cabinet since World War II. — Jenni Reid,chloe Taylor, CNBC, 5 Sep. 2026 The durability of Meloni’s coalition has been a rarity in postwar Italy, where governments often have fallen before the end of their mandates. — Silvia Stellacci, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for coalition

Word History

Etymology

French, from Latin coalescere — see coalesce

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of coalition was in 1604

Rhymes for coalition

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Browse Nearby Words

coalite
coalition
coalitional
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Cite this Entry

“Coalition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coalition. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

coalition

noun
co·​ali·​tion
ˌkō-ə-ˈlish-ən
: a temporary union of persons, parties, or countries for a common purpose
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