Definition

Having less power than needed for effective performance or operation.

Example

The car felt underpowered when trying to accelerate on the highway.

Conversation

Have you tried that new electric bike everyone's talking about?

Yeah, but I found it a bit underpowered for my needs.

Really? I thought it was supposed to be quite fast.

It is, but I prefer something with a bit more kick.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underpowered → It is formed from "under-" (meaning below or insufficient) and "powered" (from the root "power" which comes from Old French *poeir*, meaning to be able or have strength). The word describes something that has insufficient power or strength.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'below' ('under-') the necessary 'strength' ('power') — that's why underpowered means lacking sufficient power.

Visually Confused Words