Power Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈpɔːrər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A power is the ability or capacity to do something, the state of being capable or of making things happen; energy or capacity for doing or acting, especially in a particular field or sphere; a feeling of having strength or confidence.

Examples

1. “She felt a surge of power and determination to finish the project.”

2. “He exercised his power to veto the bill in Congress.”

Synonyms

1. Strength

2. Ability

3. Capability

Antonyms

1. Weakness

2. Inability

3. Powerlessness

Additional Information

Any given situation or element that has been empowered is said to be powered. Power is often associated with sources of energy, such as electricity, gasoline, or nuclear forces. People or countries can exert power through politics, the economy, or military might. However, power can sometimes be misused or exercised for nefarious purposes, such as exploitation, oppression, or corruption. Power also influences interactions, with those holding greater power often having more sway over conversations, decisions, or directions. In the realm of daily life, power is often leveraged in contexts such as productivity, relationships, or solving problems.

Empowerment is defined as the action or process of enabling or authorizing someone to act or take control. When an individual is empowered, they are granted the necessary tools, resources, and confidence to achieve goals and make informed decisions. This concept is often seen in the realm of leadership, education, and community development, where empowerment programs aim to equip people with the power to improve their lives and circumstances.

Power dynamics can also be studied in social sciences, psychology, and philosophy. These fields investigate the complex relationships and structures that allow power to be exercised, maintained, or challenged. Understanding power and its diverse applications can help us recognize how we can better utilize our strengths, collaborate with others, and create positive change in our world.

Additionally, the concept of power intersects with various philosophical and ideological perspectives. Some philosophers argue that different forms of power are essential to the functioning of governance, while others posit that power should be distributed more equally among individuals or groups. The ethics of power also raise questions about accountability, the use of power for the greater good, and the moral implications of exerting authority.

Etymology

The word “power” has its origins in the Old French word “pouvoir,” meaning “to be able” or “to have power.” This term is derived from the Latin “potere,” which also refers to the capacity to do something.

Usage Notes

The word “power” can be used in various contexts, such as politics (e.g., “he yielded executive power”), economics (e.g., “the company held immense financial power”), social relationships (e.g., “she felt empowered in her friendship”), or as a personal attribute (e.g., “he took control with confidence and power”).

Cultural References

In popular culture, “power” has been explored in various movies, books, and other media. For instance, in the movie “The Hunger Games” series, the concept of power is central to the plot, highlighting the struggle for control and authority. Similarly, in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series, power is a crucial theme in exploring the wizarding world’s social hierarchy and the impact of power struggles.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Idiomatic expressions that incorporate “power” include “power struggle,” “balance of power,” “power trip,” and “power dynamics.” These phrases reveal the complex and multifaceted nature of power in various contexts.

Related Words or Phrases

Words and phrases related to “power” include “strength,” “ability,” “capability,” “powerlessness,” and “empowerment.” These terms demonstrate the connection between power, strength, and the ability to make an impact or influence outcomes.

Collocations

Common word combinations with “power” include “power of attorney,” “power outage,” “power failure,” “balance of power,” and “exert power.” These collocations illustrate the various applications and nuances of the concept of power.

Frequency of Use

The word “power” is widely used in everyday language, across various domains, including politics, business, and personal conversations. Its versatility and multiple meanings contribute to its ubiquity in modern discourse.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “power” include “pouer,” “pawer,” and “poweir.” It’s essential to be aware of these variations to ensure accurate communication.