powerhouse

noun

pow·​er·​house ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ˌhau̇s How to pronounce powerhouse (audio)
1
b
: a source of influence or inspiration
2
: one having great power: such as
a
: one having great drive, energy, or ability
a powerhouse rock band
b
: an athletic team characterized by strong aggressive play

Examples of powerhouse in a Sentence

The country is an economic powerhouse. Their company became a powerhouse in the video game industry. She's a powerhouse on the tennis court. This year's team is a powerhouse that's winning its games easily. Seaweed is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. He is a powerhouse of ideas.
Recent Examples on the Web
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And unlike pricier Dyson or Shark models, this lightweight powerhouse covers all the same bases for $150—now 25% off ahead of Black Friday. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Oct. 2025 The founding team is an absolute powerhouse — with the drive, expertise and bold vision needed to lead the future of professional hair care. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025 In her role as chief operating and marketing officer, Lawrence has been a pivotal player in the evolution of the 120-year-old entertainment brand into a modern, multi-platform media powerhouse. William Earl, Variety, 28 Oct. 2025 Even by today’s standards, Charleston Receipts is a powerhouse. Adrian Miller, Southern Living, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for powerhouse

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of powerhouse was in 1870

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Cite this Entry

“Powerhouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powerhouse. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

powerhouse

noun
pow·​er·​house ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ˌhau̇s How to pronounce powerhouse (audio)
1
2
: a person or thing having unusual strength or energy

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