Darth Vader

Definition

A powerful individual or force, particularly one that is seen as malevolent, dominating and threatening.

Etymology

"Darth" is a blend of dark + death (the derivation from Dark Lord of the Sith is a later development). "Vader" is traditionally explained as being from Dutch vader (“father”). However, the idea of Vader's fatherhood was only developed for The Empire Strikes Back (after the character was introduced), making this improbable. It is more likely a shortening of invader or from the surname Vader.

Example Sentences

• "Irabu had hired Nomura, a man with whom he obviously had a great deal in common, and, who, as we have seen, was rapidly becoming the Darth Vader of Japanese baseball."
• "Bush's missile shield plan positions him as Darth Vader."
• "Commonly assumed to exert massive effects on the electorate, political spots (notably negative ones) have been teasingly called the Darth Vader of modern politics..."