Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Predominate \Pre*dom"i*nate\, v. i. [imp. & p. p.
   {Predominated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Predominating}.] [Pref. pre-
   + dominate: cf. F. pr['e]dominer.]
   To be superior in number, strength, influence, or authority;
   to have controlling power or influence; to prevail; to rule;
   to have the mastery; as, love predominated in her heart.

         [Certain] rays may predominate over the rest. --Sir. I.
                                                  Newton.

Predominate \Pre*dom"i*nate\, v. t.
   To rule over; to overpower. [R.]

Source : WordNet®

predominate
     adj : having superior power and influence; "the predominant mood
           among policy-makers is optimism" [syn: {overriding}, {paramount},
            {predominant}, {preponderant}, {preponderating}]
     v 1: be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance;
          "Money reigns supreme here"; "Hispanics predominate in
          this neighborhood" [syn: {dominate}, {rule}, {reign}, {prevail}]
     2: appear very large or occupy a commanding position; "The huge
        sculpture predominates over the fountain"; "Large shadows
        loomed on the canyon wall" [syn: {loom}, {tower}, {hulk}]