powerful
Having great strength, force, or influence.
Word facts
Definition
Something powerful has a great deal of strength, force, or influence. A powerful person, organization, or idea has the ability to cause big effects or achieve important goals. Power can be physical, emotional, intellectual, or social.
Usage: Powerful applies to physical strength (a powerful engine), people in authority (a powerful leader), emotions (a powerful feeling), and arguments (a powerful case). It is often used to express admiration for impact or effect.
Example sentences
- 1
The powerful storm knocked down trees and caused widespread flooding across the region.
- 2
She gave a powerful speech that moved the entire audience to tears.
- 3
A powerful microscope allowed them to see details that are invisible to the naked eye.
Word family
From power (Old French pooir, Latin potere, 'to be able') plus the suffix -ful. Literally 'full of power'. Related to 'possible' (able to happen) and 'potent' (having strong effects).
Power + ful. Something powerful is simply full of power. Say the word in two clear parts: POWER + FUL.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
How many syllables does powerful have?
Powerful has 3 syllables: pow-er-ful. The stress is on the first syllable.
What is the opposite of powerful?
The direct opposite is powerless. Other antonyms include weak and feeble.
What is the adverb form of powerful?
The adverb is powerfully. Example: She argued powerfully for the proposed change.
What does empower mean?
Empower means to give someone power, confidence, or authority to do something. It is a verb built from power with the prefix em-.