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

In a world where Democrats win the House — and Cleaver loses reelection — Kansas City’s most powerful voice in Congress may come from the western side of the state line. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 1 Apr. 2026

Through their projects, Monique and Paul use food as a powerful symbol of resilience, cultural identity, and human connection, celebrating the enduring legacy of culinary traditions. —Literary Hub, 31 Mar. 2026

If disaster strikes, a powerful abort motor pulls the crew capsule to 500 mph in two seconds. —Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026

But the one thing Orlando has never had is the most powerful sports league in the world setting up shop here. —Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 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