What does omnipotent mean?
Omnipotent is a formal word for someone or something that possesses unlimited power. Its clearest application is theological: in Christianity and other religious contexts, it describes God's complete or unlimited power. In general writing, it may refer to an idealized ruler, an extraordinarily powerful institution, or a force that cannot be resisted. The word can sound grand, emphatic, or deliberately hyperbolic, so it is often better suited to serious, literary, or religious prose than to casual conversation. As a noun, the Omnipotent is a formal or literary designation for God, normally capitalized. The word combines the Latin prefix omni-, meaning “all,” with potent, meaning “powerful.” It is related to words such as potency, potent, and impotent, and it remains distinct from omniscient, which refers to knowing everything rather than being able to do or control everything.
Possessing unlimited power or authority over all things.
"The omnipotent deity was said to control both the natural world and the fate of humanity."
Formal and sometimes hyperbolic in general usage; strongly associated with theology and descriptions of divine power.
A formal designation for God, especially in theological or elevated literary contexts.
"The poem describes the Omnipotent as the judge of all human actions."
Rare as a standalone noun and usually capitalized when referring to God.
The plural is rare and is used only when omnipotent is treated as a noun.
"The story imagines rival omnipotents contesting control over the universe."
Omnipotent literally combines the Latin elements for “all” and “powerful,” making it a compact description of boundless power.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does omnipotent come from?
Omnipotent comes from Latin omnipotens, “all-powerful,” formed from omnis (“all”) and the participle potens (“powerful” or “having power”). The word entered English in the late Middle English period and was initially associated especially with theological language. Its relatives potency, potent, and impotent also derive from the Latin root potens or potentia, while plenipotentiary reflects the related idea of full authority.
Related word forms
How omnipotent is actually used
In ordinary use, omnipotent is formal and often hyperbolic, especially when describing a ruler, deity, or irresistible force. It is especially prominent in theology, where it denotes God's unlimited power. As a noun, the Omnipotent is normally capitalized.
Easily confused with omnipotent
Omniscient means knowing everything, whereas omnipotent means having power over everything.