empower

4 definitions • 7 examples

to give someone official authority or the freedom to do something:

[ + to infinitive ] This amendment empowers the president to declare an emergency for a wide range of reasons.

The first step in empowering the poorest sections of society is making sure they vote.

to encourage and support the ability to do something:

We want to empower individuals to get the skills they need.

To empower is also to give legal authority for something:

The state constitution does not empower counties to create housing authorities.

to give someone official or legal authority, or the freedom or confidence to do something:

empower sb (to do sth) We empower our sales staff to make decisions without always having to consult their supervisor.

be empowered to do sth The Legislature is empowered to make law, subject to the Governor's right of veto.

This communications skills course aims to make people feel empowered.