French word

puissant

Pronunciation

IPA/pɥisɑ̃/

Meaning

  • adjectivepowerful

Example

Cet ordinateur est puissant.

This computer is powerful.

Illustration for puissant (powerful)

More examples

Son discours contient un argument puissant.

His speech contains a powerful argument.

Core concept

A forceful source of power that can move things or shape outcomes.

Common phrases

  • un argument puissant

    a powerful argument

  • un leader puissant

    a powerful leader

Similar words

fort: Having great physical strength or force.
efficace: Able to achieve a goal and bring about the desired result.

Definition in French

Qui possède une grande force ou une forte influence et qui peut provoquer des changements importants.

Word origin

Puissant comes from Old French puissant or poissant and ultimately traces back to Latin potentem, meaning powerful or capable.

Usage tips

  • The final t in puissant is silent, and the word has two syllables, pronounced roughly pwee-SAHN.

Other meanings

  • strongadjective
  • influentialadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word