Definitions

powerful

[pou-er-fuhl] / ˈpaʊ ər fəl /

ADJECTIVE

strong, effective

Synonyms

STRONGEST

all-powerful authoritative capable compelling dominant dynamic energetic forceful impressive influential mighty persuasive potent robust vigorous

WEAK

able almighty authoritarian big-wheel cogent commanding competent controlling convincing effectual efficacious forcible in control in the saddle omnipotent overruling paramount preeminent prevailing puissant ruling sovereign stalwart strapping strengthy sturdy supreme telling upper hand weighty wicked wieldy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

idle impotent inactive incapable ineffective ineffectual insignificant lethargic unimportant weak

WEAK

unable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In late November in Jamnagar, India, the scions of two of the most powerful families in the world stood face-to-face.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Flight argues that, no matter how powerful the technology of frontier models, “cost curves, capacity constraints and marginal returns” are what will determine the pace and scale of adoption.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

The new model does appear to be more powerful than previous generations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Gates joins former President Bill Clinton, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and other powerful figures who have been questioned by the bipartisan committee.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

While Hooke was showing off his "cells," a sharp-eyed Dutch merchant named Anton van Leeuwenhoek was making more powerful microscopes.

From "Phineas Gage" by John Fleischman

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