powerful

adjective

pow·​er·​ful ˈpau̇(-ə)r-fəl 

1

: having great power, prestige, or influence

a powerful leader

2

: leading to many or important deductions

a powerful set of postulates

Synonyms of powerful

• influential
• significant
• strong
• important

Examples of powerful in a Sentence

The country is becoming more and more powerful.

powerful drugs that attack cancer cells

The cash bonus provides a powerful incentive to workers.

The perfume has a powerful smell.

It's a very powerful movie.

The dog has a powerful body.

She has a powerful voice.

The weapons are very powerful.

The aardvark uses its powerful claws to dig for food.

Recent Examples on the Web

These disturbing images raise even more questions about Epstein and his relationships with some of the most powerful men in the world. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 4 Feb. 2026

Even so, competing on the elite global stage for winter sport is a powerful message of resilience from a tropical nation that has weathered so much tragedy. —Colleen Barry, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2026

The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love. —Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 3 Feb. 2026

Even under the influence of Neptune in Aries, this moon likely felt like a powerful turning point. —Katharina Fuchs, Vogue, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing powerful

• all-powerful

Kids Definition

powerful

adjective

pow·​er·​ful ˈpau̇(-ə)r-fəl 

: full of or having power or influence : strong, effective

powerfully

-f(ə-)lē 

adverb