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Prowess is a word with a lot to be proud of. Not only has it performed gallantly for the English language since the 13th century, but it has stayed relatively stalwart in hewing to its original meaning, which is quite a flex. When prowess first joined the ranks of the lexicon, it could be used to refer to bravery, skill, and valor—especially those virtues as encountered in military contexts—or to individual acts of derring-do. The latter was usually used in the plural, as when people waxed rhapsodic about the “prowesses” of knights or some such. Today’s “extraordinary ability” meaning, which developed in the 17th century, tends to stick to the singular form, as when it’s used to describe those with intellectual prowess, or to someone known for their prowess as a fundraiser.
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Examples of prowess in a Sentence
Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 15 Apr. 2024
In addition to her musical prowess, the star has also launched a series of lifestyle brands, including fashion line L.A.M.B., Harajuku Lovers and eyewear line gx by Gwen Stefani, earning her more than $1 billion in retail sales.
—Tabitha Parent, Peoplemag, 13 Apr. 2024
Plus, an intra-league trade, especially to a Western Conference competitor, would result in the need to play against Reynoso and be subject to his playmaking prowess at the Loons’ own expense in the standings.
—Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 12 Apr. 2024
Gunn is better known for being one of the top public schools in the state than for its teams’ athletic prowess.
—Joseph Dycus, The Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2024
His prowess as a young sportsman aside, Simpson’s grades in high school did not endear him to recruiters for collegiate football teams.
—Dakin Andone, CNN, 11 Apr. 2024
The writer is known for his dramatic prowess and his work features political undertones and deals with themes of power.
—Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Apr. 2024
Athletes epitomize commitment, resilience and optimal physical prowess.
—Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 27 Mar. 2024
In addition to showcasing her modeling prowess, Bündchen has recently been promoting her new cookbook, Nourish, which falls right in line with her dedication to wellness through nutrition.
—Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 1 Apr. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prowess.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Prowess.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prowess. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.
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prowess
noun
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