English Reference

Word

hydropower

Phoneticshy·dropow·er, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈhaɪdɹoʊˌpaʊɹ/

UK/hˈaɪdɹəpˌaʊɐ/

Technology

Definition

n. a type of energy made by using the movement of water, like the flow of a river or the power of a waterfall. It is a common way to produce electricity.

n. the generation of electricity by the controlled flow of water, typically through the use of dams or turbines. Often used as a renewable energy source in environmental and engineering contexts.

Examples

“The local town uses hydropower to get its electricity.”

“Many countries are investing in hydropower to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.”

“While hydropower remains a significant contributor to the global renewable energy mix, its environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems often necessitates careful engineering and regulatory oversight.”

Examples

simple

“The local town uses hydropower to get its electricity.”

contextual

“Many countries are investing in hydropower to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.”

complex

“While hydropower remains a significant contributor to the global renewable energy mix, its environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems often necessitates careful engineering and regulatory oversight.”

Real-World Examples

“Supporters say it will bring irrigation, drinking water and hydropower to drought-prone Bundelkhand.”
Al Jazeera 15 Aug 2026
“Romania also has huge hydropower capacity, although that has been heavily cut by the same low river levels that caused the nuclear shutdown.”
BBC News 13 Aug 2026

Word family

Domain

Technology

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference