verb Uncommon

empower

ihm-POW-uh

Empower (verb) means to give someone the authority or legal right to do something. Example: “The new law empowers local councils to set their own budgets.”

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verb

To give someone the authority or legal right to do something.

"The new law empowers local councils to set their own budgets."

To give someone greater confidence or control over their own life.

"The workshop was designed to empower young women to pursue careers in science."

How to use empower

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo give someone power, authority, or confidence to act for themselves.

Common pairings

empower employees empower women feel empowered

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Singular: empowers
Past tense: empowered

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The new law _____ local councils to set their own budgets.

Etymology

From em- (a form of "in") + power.

Synonyms

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gift invest authorize endow indue endue authorise

Related words

let clear lord giving allow authority seat gift

Rhymes for empower

tower power lower bower mower cower Gower flower blower shower slower grower

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Frequently asked questions

What does “empower” mean?

The word “empower” means to give someone the authority or legal right to do something. In plain terms, to give someone power, authority, or confidence to act for themselves.

How do you pronounce “empower”?

“Empower” is pronounced ihm-POW-uh (/ɪmˈpaʊ.əɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “empower” in a sentence?

Here is “empower” used in a sentence: “The new law empowers local councils to set their own budgets.”

What part of speech is “empower”?

“Empower” is a verb.

Is “empower” a common word?

“Empower” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “empower” have?

“Empower” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to give someone the authority or legal right to do something.

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