empower

[em-pou-er]

verb (used with object)

1. to give power pow power or authority to; authorize, especially by legal or official means.

   I empowered my agent to make the deal for me. The local ordinance empowers the board of health to close unsanitary restaurants.

   Synonyms: qualify, license, commission, warrant

2. to enable or permit.

   Wealth empowered him to live a comfortable life.

empower

/ ɪmˈpaʊə /

verb

1. to give or delegate power or authority to; authorize

2. to give ability to; enable or permit

Other Word Forms

• empowerment noun
• unempowered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of empower¹

First recorded in 1645–55; em- ¹ + power

Example Sentences

"The legislation that empowers us to act is quite out of date."

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The image empowered me when the bird showed up.

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“It was an historic moment for our country, and it was momentous for our community — empowering me to bring home billions of dollars for our city and our state.”

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Organizations trying to rein in the world’s largest tech companies as they advance the powerful technology say the tech industry has become more empowered at the national and state levels.

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"The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice."

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• allow 
• entitle 
• entrust 
• grant 
• legitimize 
• permit 
• vest