prevail: Meaning and Definition of

pre•vail

1. to be widespread or current; exist everywhere or generally: Silence prevailed along the funeral route.
2. to appear or occur as the more important or frequent feature or element; predominate: Green tints prevail in the upholstery.
3. to be or prove superior in strength, power, or influence (usually fol. by over): They prevailed over their enemies in the battle.
4. to succeed; become dominant; win out: to wish that the right side might prevail.
5. to use persuasion or inducement successfully: He prevailed upon us to accompany him.