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strength

n.
US //ˈstɹɛŋkθ// UK //stɹˈɛŋθ// strength
  1. 1 physical power (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the physical power that lets you lift heavy things or move your body.

    the quality of being physically strong; the capacity of an object or person to withstand or exert great force.

    Example

    He didn't have the strength to lift the heavy suitcase by himself.

    Example

    The structural strength of the bridge was tested by engineers before it was officially opened to heavy vehicle traffic.

    Usage

    Uncountable when referring to the general quality; countable when referring to specific forces.
  2. 2 emotional or mental power (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the ability to stay calm and brave during a difficult or sad time.

    mental or emotional resilience; the capacity to endure hardship or maintain resolve.

    Example

    She showed great strength after losing her job and immediately started looking for a new one.

    Example

    It takes considerable inner strength to admit one's mistakes in a professional environment where perfection is expected.
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  1. 3 intensity or potency (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    how powerful or concentrated something is, like a smell, a light, or a drink.

    the degree of intensity or potency of a force, substance, or feeling.

    Example

    The strength of the wind increased as the storm moved closer to the coast.

    Example

    The pharmacist explained that the strength of the medication would be adjusted based on the patient's response to the initial dose.
  2. 4 a positive attribute (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a particular skill or good quality that someone has.

    a specific quality or attribute that provides an advantage or makes someone effective.

    Example

    Public speaking is one of her greatest strengths as a manager.

    Example

    During the interview, the candidate was asked to identify both his professional strengths and areas where he required further development.
  3. 5 total number of people (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    the total number of people in a group, like an army or a team.

    the full complement of personnel in a military unit or organisation.

    Example

    The police force is back to full strength after the new officers finished their training.

    Example

    The battalion was at half strength following the winter campaign, necessitating an immediate call for reinforcements from the capital.
Origin

From Middle English strengthe, from Old English strengþu (“strength”), from Proto-West Germanic *strangiþu (“strongness; strength”), equivalent to strong + -th (abstract nominal suffix). Cognate with Dutch strengte (“strength”), German Low German Strengde, Strengte (“harshness; rigidity; strictness; severity”).

Word family
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