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POW - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

POW stands for prisoner of war, referring to a person captured and held by an enemy during a conflict. It is commonly used in military and historical contexts.

POW

/paʊ/ /paʊ/

Definition:

A prisoner of war, typically a soldier captured by the enemy during conflict.

Synonyms:

captive, detainee, internee

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

free person, liberator

Common Collocations:

POW camp, escaped POW, release POWs, treat POWs, rescue POWs

Derivatives:

POWs, powwow (unrelated but similar spelling)

Usage Tips:

Use "POW" as a noun to refer to captured military personnel in wartime contexts.

Common Phrases:

POW status, former POW, WWII POW

Etymology:

Abbreviation of "prisoner of war," first recorded in the early 20th century during World War I.

Examples:

  • 1. The soldier became a POW after his unit surrendered.
  • 2. The Red Cross visited the POW camp to deliver supplies.
  • 3. Many WWII POWs endured harsh conditions in captivity.
  • 4. Negotiations secured the release of dozens of POWs last month.

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