empower

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪmˈpaʊər/

KK: /ɪmˈpaʊər/

transitive verb

Definition

To give someone the power or authority to do something, or to make someone stronger and more confident.

Example

The program aims to empower women by providing them with education and resources.

Tense Forms

Past: empowered

Past Participle: empowered

Conversation

I really think we should find ways to empower our community.

That sounds great! How do you plan to do that?

Maybe we could start some workshops to teach useful skills.

Absolutely! That would really help empower people in our area.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

authorize

enable

entitle

Antonyms

disempower

restrict

hinder

Root Explanation

Empower is formed from "em-" (a variant of "en-", meaning to cause to be) and "power" (from Old French "poeir", meaning to be able or have strength). The word "empower" means to cause someone to have power or authority.

Memory Tip

Think of 'causing someone to be able' — 'em-' means to cause, and 'power' refers to strength or ability.

Visually Confused Words

embower

power

mower