third force

noun

: a grouping (as of political parties or international powers) intermediate between two opposing political forces

Examples of third force in a Sentence

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.
Of course, the AKPs founders, including the current prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, originally arose from a third force in Turkish politics -- Islamism. — Mustafa Akyol, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2010 While the frontrunners represent different sides of the country’s political establishment, a third force has emerged as a challenger in the election. — Julia Malleck, Quartz, 11 May 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of third force was in 1936

Rhymes for third force

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Cite this Entry

“Third force.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/third%20force. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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