powerful

adjective

pow·​er·​ful ˈpau̇(-ə)r-fəl 

1

: having great power, prestige, or influence

a powerful leader

2

: leading to many or important deductions

a powerful set of postulates

Synonyms of powerful

• influential
• significant
• strong
• important

Examples of powerful in a Sentence

The country is becoming more and more powerful.

powerful drugs that attack cancer cells

The cash bonus provides a powerful incentive to workers.

The perfume has a powerful smell.

It's a very powerful movie.

The dog has a powerful body.

She has a powerful voice.

The weapons are very powerful.

The aardvark uses its powerful claws to dig for food.

Recent Examples on the Web

Passengers at the back can also get extra serenading with the standard Burmester 3D Surround Sound with Dolby Atmos, which comes with an additional pair of rear speakers and a more powerful 710-watt amp. — Howard Walker, Robb Report, 21 July 2026

According to the think tank InSight Crime, the alliance between these factions was one of the main reasons the Sinaloa cartel consolidated itself as one of the most powerful in the region. — Sol Amaya, CNN Money, 20 July 2026

But since 'consensus' in science is powerful, and Levin was polite, the community marginalized him. — Leonard David, Space.com, 20 July 2026

In her first-round loss, Williams displayed powerful serves while her daughters Olympia and Adira Ohanian looked on. — Lynda Lin Grigsby, Los Angeles Times, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing powerful

• all-powerful

Kids Definition

powerful

adjective

pow·​er·​ful ˈpau̇(-ə)r-fəl 

: full of or having power or influence : strong, effective

powerfully

-f(ə-)lē 

adverb