wattage

noun

watt·​age ˈwä-tij 

1

: amount of power expressed in watts

2

: dynamic or mental energy or appeal

the celebrity's high wattage

Examples of wattage in a Sentence

Use a bulb with low wattage.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite his level-headedness, Mike is mightily discontent with the low-wattage gigs that are arranged for him by, of all people, his dentist (Fisher Stevens), who soon replaces that absent tooth. —Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 9 Jan. 2026

The Palm Springs International Film Awards gala delivered its annual blend of star wattage and Oscar-season momentum on Saturday evening, with candid speeches, emotional reveals and a last-minute reshuffling prompted by an absent honoree. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 4 Jan. 2026

Would amping up the wattage in your desk lamp help improve your focus? —Lauren Mechling, Vogue, 27 Dec. 2025

Six of those 15 goal contributions came in low-wattage group matches in the Sao Paulo state championship, for example. —Jack Lang, New York Times, 14 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for wattage

• cottage
• pottage

Kids Definition

wattage

noun

watt·​age ˈwät-ij 

: amount of power expressed in watts

Medical Definition

wattage

noun

watt·​age ˈwät-ij 

: amount of power expressed in watts