powerful

[pou-er-fuhl] / ˈpaʊ ər fəl /

ADJECTIVE

strong, effective

Synonyms

STRONGEST

all-powerful authoritative capable compelling dominant dynamic energetic forceful impressive influential mighty persuasive potent robust vigorous

WEAK

able almighty authoritarian big-wheel cogent commanding competent controlling convincing effectual efficacious forcible in control in the saddle omnipotent overruling paramount preeminent prevailing puissant ruling sovereign stalwart strapping strengthy sturdy supreme telling upper hand weighty wicked wieldy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

idle impotent inactive incapable ineffective ineffectual insignificant lethargic unimportant weak

WEAK

unable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Access to powerful technology has become a key component of success in warfare and the Pentagon has been working to build up its AI capabilities for several years.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

There are still powerful ways to tell stories, even amid mergers and changes that seem insurmountable.

From Salon • May 1, 2026

The Palo Alto company wants to reinvent the battery-driven bicycle using a powerful generator and software to change the look, feel and capabilities of two-wheelers.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

But he “came of age during a time when the city was on a powerful upswing.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

It had been four days since Lehman Brothers had been allowed to fail, but the most powerful effects of the collapse were being felt right now.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

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