firepower

noun

fire·​pow·​er ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce firepower (audio)
Synonyms of firepowernext
1
a
: the capacity (as of a military unit) to deliver effective fire on a target
b
: effective fire
2
a
: effective power or force
intellectual firepower
b
: the scoring ability of a team or player

Examples of firepower in a Sentence

The army didn't have the firepower to defeat the invaders. right now the President doesn't have the political firepower to push his programs through Congress
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Coming off a disappointing playoff series against Phoenix, the Lakers went all-in on firepower and ignored basketball fit. The Athletic Nba Staff, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2026 The mission was to show the flag, explore commercial opportunities – including routes to supply gold-mining operations – and display a little firepower. Nathan Hodge, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026 Woburn lost firepower from last year’s semifinal run, but should be in the mix with Matt Hughes, Jared Barreto and Matt DeFeo returning on the blue line in front of standout goalie Adam Gerry. Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 9 Jan. 2026 The Lakers have come into several games lacking their normal firepower this season, and the younger, deeper opponents who sense blood in the water have been taking advantage of those situations. Oc Register, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for firepower

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of firepower was in 1871

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Cite this Entry

“Firepower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firepower. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

firepower

noun
fire·​pow·​er -ˌpau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce firepower (audio)
: the ability to deliver gunfire or warheads on a target
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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