Strength

Definition

Strength refers to the quality or state of being strong, including physical power, mental toughness, or the durability and intensity of a particular attribute or substance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /strɛŋkθ/ or /strɛŋθ/
• Respelling: STRENGKTH or STRENGTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /strɛŋ(k)θ/
• Respelling: STRENG(K)TH

Etymology

The word "strength" originates from Old English "strengþu," meaning "power, force, or bodily strength," derived from the Proto-Germanic "*strengþō" and related to Old High German "strengida." It has roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "*strenk-" meaning "tight or stiff."

Derivatives

• Strengthen (verb)
• Strong (adjective)
• Strongly (adverb)
• Strengthening (noun/verb)
• Strengthened (adjective)

Synonyms

• Power
• Force
• Resilience

Antonyms

• Weakness
• Fragility
• Feebleness

Usage

The word "strength" is used in various contexts, such as describing physical power ("He displayed incredible strength during the competition"), emotional resilience ("Her inner strength helped her through difficult times"), or the intensity of a quality ("The strength of the material ensures durability").

Related Terms

• Endurance: The ability to sustain effort or withstand hardship over time.
• Durability: The ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage.
• Fortitude: Strength of mind that enables a person to face adversity.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Physical power or force: The ability to exert force or withstand pressure.
  • Example: "The athlete's strength was unmatched in the weightlifting event."
• Mental or emotional resilience: The capacity to handle adversity or stress.
  • Example: "Her strength of character inspired everyone around her."
• Intensity or potency: Refers to the degree of power, force, or concentration in a particular context.
  • Example: "The strength of the storm caused widespread damage."
• Effectiveness or durability: The ability of a material or substance to withstand wear or pressure.
  • Example: "The steel’s strength made it suitable for construction."