English Reference
adjective · verb

empowered

adj. · v.
US /ɪmˈpaʊɝd/ UK /ɛmpˈaʊəd/ em·pow·ered

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.feeling confident and able to make your own choices in life.

    adj.possessing the psychological confidence and social autonomy to make decisions and take action.

    Simple

    The workshop helped the students feel empowered to start their own businesses.

    In context

    The mentorship programme aims to leave participants feeling empowered to negotiate for better working conditions and higher salaries.

    Usage

    Often used as a predicative adjective after 'feel' or 'become'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    adj.having the official or legal right to do something.

    adj.invested with the formal or legal authority to perform a specific function.

    Simple

    The committee is empowered to make decisions about the new budget.

    In context

    Under the new legislation, the agency is empowered to conduct inspections without prior notice if a safety violation is suspected.

    Usage

    Typically followed by a 'to' infinitive.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.the past tense of 'empower', meaning to give someone power or authority.

    v.the past tense and past participle form of the transitive verb 'empower'.

    Simple

    The new law empowered local police to handle the situation directly.

    In context

    The board of directors empowered the CEO to finalize the merger without further consultation.

They have also been advised that they should feel empowered to close shops or lifeboat stations if they feel in danger.

The Guardian· 10 Sept 2026

I felt really energised and empowered by that voice coming back into my life,” she says.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated