prevailed

Prevailed is the past tense of the verb prevail. It denotes success or victory in a contest, dispute, or challenge, or the state of being widespread or accepted. In usage, it can describe a definite win (a team prevailed over its opponents) or the outcome of deliberation or persuasion (a proposal prevailed in a vote or debate).

Etymology: The word derives from Middle English prevalen, via Old French prevailer, from Latin praevalere "to be strong, prevail," formed from prae- "before" + valere "to be strong." It entered English with the sense of gaining the upper hand or achieving success.

Usage: In modern English, prevail is common in formal and journalistic writing. The phrase "prevail over" or "prevail against" indicates overcoming opposition. The phrasal verb "prevail upon" or "prevail on" means to persuade someone to do something, often after effort. In law and politics, "the prevailing party" refers to the party that wins a case or dispute; "the prevailing winds" can describe what is currently dominant or widespread.

Related forms: prevailing (adjective), prevalence (noun), prevalent (adjective). These terms share the core idea of dominance, commonality, or success, but are used in slightly different grammatical contexts.