powers
/ˈpaʊərz/
noun
Origin
Latin
potere — to be able
Overview
Meaning Now
- The ability or capacity to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events.
- The legal or official authority to act in a particular capacity.
- The strength or energy possessed by a person, group, or object (e.g., electrical power).
Literal older meaning
plural of power
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → Modern English
Earliest form
power
Earliest period
13th century
Journey
The evolution of 'power' reflects the shift from personal capability (the ability to do something) to institutionalized authority (the right to command), a distinction crucial to the development of legal and political philosophy in Europe.
Evolution
- Latin
potis
“able, powerful”
- Old French
pouair
“ability, capacity”
Transition from the verb 'to be able' to the noun of capacity.
- Middle English
power
“strength, force, or authority”
Connections
Word parts
power
root
ability or capacity
s
suffix
plural marker
Related across languages
German
Macht
power/might
French
pouvoir
power/to be able
Spanish
poder
power/to be able
Explore next
Related to powers
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.