What does powerhouse mean?
A powerhouse is a person, organization, or thing regarded as exceptionally powerful, influential, successful, or energetic. The expression is especially common in journalism, business, sport, and cultural commentary, where it describes a major organization, a consistently dominant performer, or a source of remarkable strength and creativity. For example, a company may be called an industry powerhouse, while an athlete may be described as a powerhouse on the field. The word has a strongly positive connotation, suggesting not merely present success but the capacity to exert considerable force or produce outstanding results. Although it can still refer literally to a facility that generates electric power, that sense is relatively uncommon in modern usage. Overall, “powerhouse” conveys concentrated strength, effectiveness, and influence.
A person, organization, or thing of exceptional power, influence, strength, or importance.
"The company has grown into a global technology powerhouse."
Commonly used figuratively and generally carries strong praise.
A person who is exceptionally energetic, effective, or successful in a particular activity.
"She was a powerhouse during the championship series."
Often used in sport, entertainment, and other performance contexts.
A building or facility in which electric power is generated.
"The power station remains a landmark in the industrial district."
This literal sense is dated in ordinary use; “power plant” or “power station” is more usual today.
The plural is formed by adding “-s.”
"Several global powerhouses dominate the market."
What began as a description of a building packed with machinery now means anyone or anything with extraordinary influence or energy.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does powerhouse come from?
“Powerhouse” developed in the 19th century as a compound of “power” and “house,” originally referring to a building associated with the generation or distribution of power. Its figurative sense for a highly powerful person or institution developed by extension. The word belongs to the same lexical family as “power,” “powerless,” and “empower,” all built on the idea of power or its absence.
How powerhouse is actually used
The term is usually figurative and strongly positive, suggesting impressive ability, influence, or performance. It is common in journalism, business, sport, and cultural commentary, while the older literal sense referring to a power-generating facility is now less usual.
Easily confused with powerhouse
A powerhouse usually describes a highly powerful or influential person, organization, or thing, whereas a power station is a facility that generates electricity.