1.
great powers, major nations
The powerful nations of the world, especially in a historical context referring to the dominant imperial or military powers.
Primarily a historical term referring to the dominant world powers, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries (Britain, France, Germany, Russia, the United States, etc.). Can also be used in modern contexts to refer to powerful nations.
Literally means "row of strong ones" (列 = row + 強 = strong).