Definition of energynext
1
as in aura
a spiritual force that is held to emanate from or give animation to living beings many Eastern cultures believe in the significance of life energy in the healing process

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
3
as in fuel
something with a usable capacity for doing work some of the power needs of the house are provided by solar energy

Synonyms & Similar Words

4

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun energy contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of energy are force, might, power, and strength. While all these words mean "the ability to exert effort," energy applies to power expended or capable of being transformed into work.

a worker with boundless energy

When is it sensible to use force instead of energy?

While in some cases nearly identical to energy, force implies the actual effective exercise of power.

used enough force to push the door open

In what contexts can might take the place of energy?

While the synonyms might and energy are close in meaning, might implies great or overwhelming power or strength.

the belief that might makes right

When would power be a good substitute for energy?

In some situations, the words power and energy are roughly equivalent. However, power may imply latent or exerted physical, mental, or spiritual ability to act or be acted upon.

the awesome power of flowing water

When is strength a more appropriate choice than energy?

The synonyms strength and energy are sometimes interchangeable, but strength applies to the quality or property of a person or thing that makes possible the exertion of force or the withstanding of strain, pressure, or attack.

use weight training to build your strength

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of energy The vibrant floral print of this Vince Camuto Maxi Dress practically radiates vacation energy. Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2026 Oil prices fell and stocks rose on optimism that the US and Iran were nearing a lasting peace deal, but analysts warned that huge challenges remained for the global energy market. Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 29 May 2026 It is intended to bring the energy of the World Cup stage to the Johnson County community and to promote diversity and culture in the community, according to a news release from the parks department. Emily Harter, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026 The sensory experience of vivid colors, the smell of spices and the energy of the vendors is overwhelming in the best possible way. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for energy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for energy
Noun
  • The mere presence of Hezbollah fighters in the dock shattered the group’s long-standing aura of impunity in Lebanon.
    Euan Ward, New Yorker, 29 May 2026
  • Stubby, low-profile legs give the Facade bed frame a faux floating effect, and classic lines give the design a streamlined aura.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 28 May 2026
Noun
  • Reality is a system where prosecutorial vigor often correlates with public attention.
    Letters to the Editor, Hartford Courant, 28 May 2026
  • Squish the bags around with vigor and joy.
    CBS News, CBS News, 28 May 2026
Noun
  • Meanwhile, Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran has roiled the global energy markets and sent the cost of gas and jet fuel soaring.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 11 June 2026
  • According to Susana Reyes, Vice President for Chamber and Plant Design, this liquid barrier absorbs neutron flux, generates tritium fuel, and transfers heat while constantly renewing itself.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Federal officials this year sent water from the upstream Flaming Gorge Reservoir to Lake Powell to stave off an emergency where water levels in the lower reservoir fall so low that water no longer flows through the dam’s power turbines — the only safe way to release water for extended periods.
    Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 7 June 2026
  • That still left a lot of the two-time league champion’s star power exposed to be plucked by the four new teams looking to fill rosters.
    Tom Carothers, Twin Cities, 7 June 2026
Noun
  • Blending Old World charm with modern hospitality, Pella offers an inviting escape steeped in culture, history and warm community spirit.
    Staff, USA Today, 8 June 2026
  • Originally from Long Island, New York, and shaped by 20 years in southern Arizona, her work examines the intersection of wild landscapes, small-town culture, and the spirit of adventure.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 June 2026
Noun
  • The high court has previously upheld other methods of execution throughout the country, including lethal injection, electrocution and firing squad, but nitrogen gas has been the subject of intense litigation since Alabama became the first state in the nation to begin using it in early 2024.
    Abigail Brooks, NBC news, 12 June 2026
  • Meanwhile, Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran has roiled the global energy markets and sent the cost of gas and jet fuel soaring.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • That’s one of our city’s greatest strengths.
    Todd Plummer, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026
  • Even in a less spectacular season at the tip of a City side which did not always play to his strengths, Haaland still found the net 38 times in 52 club appearances.
    Liam Twomey, New York Times, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Treatments range from Chinese-inspired, correcting the flow of qi within the body, to Ayurvedic, rooted in India’s most ancient healing science.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
  • What to Remove for Better Feng Shui Feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice, focuses on creating a harmonious flow of energy, known as chi.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/energy. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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