empower

American  

[em-pou-er] / ɛmˈpaʊ ər /

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.

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empower British  

/ ɪmˈpaʊə /

verb

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

2. to give ability to; enable or permit

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Other Word Forms

• empowerment noun
• unempowered adjective

Etymology

Origin of empower

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

Example Sentences

But rather than depict a childhood of adversity, her paintings empower the kids within them to claim their own space, imbuing her memories with strength and light.

From Los Angeles Times

At the same time, Gershon had observed that young women weren’t feeling empowered to advocate for themselves in their personal relationships and workplaces.

From Los Angeles Times

The statement didn’t mention the goal of regime change or the prospect of empowering the country’s long-suffering opposition.

From The Wall Street Journal

“It’s raunchy, and hilarious without being just joke-punchline, and empowering, and you leave feeling like you got a glimpse into who she is.”

From Los Angeles Times

"Every woman of every age should understand her risk of heart disease and stroke and be empowered to take action to reduce that risk," she said.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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