strength

The word “strength” means physical power; the capacity to exert force or bear weight. In plain terms, how powerful, capable, or intense something is — muscles, character, an argument, or a drink.

“Strength” is pronounced STREHNGTH (/ˈstɹeɪŋθ/ in IPA).

Here is “strength” used in a sentence: “It took real strength to lift the fallen branch off the road.”

Words with a similar meaning to “strength” include ability, asset, capability, expertise, forte and fortitude.

“Strength” is a noun.

The word “strength” comes from Old English. From Old English strengthu, built from "strong" plus a suffix that turns adjectives into abstract nouns.

“Strength” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Strength” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: physical power; the capacity to exert force or bear weight.

Strength is the capacity to exert force or bear weight, measured by how much you can lift, push, or resist. Power adds speed, meaning force applied quickly, so it is strength expressed over time. A strong person can move a heavy load; a powerful one can move it explosively fast.

Yes. Physical strength responds well to training. Regularly working muscles against resistance, through weights or bodyweight exercise, prompts them to grow and adapt, increasing the force they can produce. Progress depends on consistent effort, adequate rest, and good nutrition, and gains can be maintained or lost over time.

In fitness terms, common types include maximal strength, the greatest force you can exert; explosive strength, force produced quickly; and endurance strength, sustaining force over time. Beyond the physical, strength also describes mental, emotional, and structural robustness, though those extend the word beyond pure physical power.

The direct opposite is weakness, the lack of physical power or the inability to exert much force or bear weight. Related terms include frailty and feebleness. Where strength lets you lift, push, and endure, weakness limits what you can move or resist and often accompanies illness, fatigue, or age.