empower
UK: ɪmˈpaʊə | US: ɪmˈpaʊər
vt. to give someone the authority or power to do something
vt. to enable or permit someone to act with confidence or autonomy
The word "empower" combines the prefix "em-" (a variant of "en-" meaning "in" or "into") with the root "power," derived from Latin "potere" (to be able). Originally, "en-" was used in Old French to indicate causation or transformation (e.g., "enlighten"). Over time, "empower" evolved to signify granting authority or enabling someone, reflecting the idea of "putting power into" a person or group.
The new law will empower local communities to make decisions about their resources.
Education can empower individuals to break the cycle of poverty.
The manager sought to empower her team by delegating more responsibilities.
Technology has empowered people to access information instantly.
Workshops aim to empower women with financial literacy skills.