Power
'paʊər
Definitions
4 meaningsThe capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events.
'paʊər
The ability to do something or act in a particular way.
The country's power lies in its strong economy.
💡 Simply: Power is like having the super-ability to do something or make something happen. Think of a superhero or a car – they have power to move things!
👶 For kids: Power is when you can do something or make something happen.
More Examples
The athlete's power allowed her to win the competition.
The sun is a source of natural power.
How It's Used
"The president has significant executive power."
"The device requires an external power source."
"She wielded a lot of social power in her community."
Physical strength or force; energy.
'paʊər
Physical strength or force.
The force of the wind demonstrated its destructive power.
💡 Simply: Power can also mean how much force something has. Like a strong punch or a fast car!
👶 For kids: Power is how strong something is, like a strong punch or a fast car.
More Examples
The athlete's power was evident in his impressive performance.
The car's engine generates a lot of power.
How It's Used
"The power of the engine propelled the car forward."
"The baseball player hit the ball with tremendous power."
Electrical or mechanical energy that is used to operate machines, etc.
'paʊər
Electrical or mechanical energy.
The city experienced a power outage due to the storm.
💡 Simply: Power can be the electricity that makes your TV or your video games work!
👶 For kids: Power is what makes the lights turn on and your toys go.
More Examples
The electric car runs on battery power.
The power grid provides electricity to homes and businesses.
How It's Used
"The factory's production relied on a consistent power supply."
"We lost power during the storm."
To supply with power; to energize or drive.
'paʊər
To supply with energy or force.
The solar panels power the house.
💡 Simply: To power something means to give it the energy it needs to work! Like you power your phone when you plug it in.
👶 For kids: To power is to give something energy so it can work.
More Examples
The engine powers the car.
Inspiration powers artists to create.
How It's Used
"The generator powers the entire building."
"Music can power the soul."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
power through
To continue doing something despite difficulties or obstacles.
"Despite the setbacks, she powered through to finish the project."
be in power
To hold a position of authority and control in a government or organization.
"The new government has been in power for six months."
From Old French *poeir* (to be able), from Latin *posse* (to be able).
The word 'power' has existed in the English language for centuries, with its meaning evolving from physical capability to encompassing broader concepts of influence and control.
Memory tip
Think of the ability to shape events or control others. "Power" helps you remember this concept.
Word Origin
"to be able"