power
pow-er · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
The ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way.
- 2.
The capacity to influence others or the course of events.
- 3.
Physical strength or force.
- 4.
Energy that is produced by mechanical, electrical, or other means.
- 5.
A country or organization with great influence.
- 6.
(Mathematics) The product obtained when a number is multiplied by itself a certain number of times.
- 7.
Supply energy to; operate using a particular source of energy.
Forms
plural: powers
Phrases & expressions
- •power struggle — A fight for control or authority.
- •power outage — A temporary loss of electrical power.
- •in power — In control of government or an organization.
- •the powers that be — The authorities; those in control.
- •power to the people — A slogan advocating popular control.
- •knowledge is power — Information gives one an advantage.
- •more power to you — Used to express approval or encouragement.
Related words
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman poer, from Old French poeir, povoir ("to be able"), from Vulgar Latin potēre, from Latin posse ("to be able").