online vocabulary.com

Disempowered - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Disempowered means lacking power, control, or confidence, often due to external forces or circumstances. It describes someone who feels unable to influence their own life or decisions.

disempowered

/ˌdɪsɪmˈpaʊərd/ /ˌdɪsɪmˈpaʊəd/

Definition:

Made to feel powerless or deprived of authority or confidence.

Synonyms:

weakened, undermined, subjugated, marginalized

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

empowered, strengthened, enabled

Common Collocations:

feel disempowered, disempowered group, disempowered individuals

Derivatives:

disempowerment, disempowering

Usage Tips:

Use "disempowered" to describe someone stripped of power or confidence, often in social or political contexts.

Common Phrases:

left feeling disempowered, voice of the disempowered

Etymology:

From "dis-" (reverse) + "empower," originating from Old French "empoeirier" (to give power).

Examples:

  • 1. She felt disempowered after losing her job unexpectedly.
  • 2. The policy left many workers feeling disempowered and unheard.
  • 3. Disempowered communities often struggle to advocate for their rights effectively.
  • 4. Teachers should avoid actions that make students feel disempowered in class.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS