What is a superpower in geopolitics?

A superpower is a nation with unmatched global influence and capabilities. Historically, it referred to countries with decisive military (especially nuclear) and economic strength after WWII. Such a state can project power worldwide, shape international institutions, and withstand major threats. For example, possessing nuclear arsenals historically made the US and USSR superpowers because they had means of decisive victory even in the strongest conflict. Today a superpower combines a huge economy, military reach, technological leadership and diplomatic clout. It can influence global events in many regions simultaneously. In short, a superpower is a leading state whose overall strength far exceeds that of others.