underpowered

adjective

un·​der·​pow·​ered ˌən-dər-ˈpau̇(-ə)rd How to pronounce underpowered (audio)
1
: driven by an engine of insufficient power
2
: having or supplied with insufficient power

Examples of underpowered in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Even with the more potent 3.2-liter V-6, the NSX is somewhat underpowered, and was even when new. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2024 But otherwise, the musical performances are underpowered, lacking much movement, personality, or surprise. Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 4 Oct. 2024 And health executives, lawyers, and those in the halls of Congress are worried that the federal government’s response is underpowered, underfunded, and overly focused on protecting hospitals — even as Change proved that weaknesses are widespread. Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 28 Sep. 2024 Health executives, lawyers, and those in the halls of Congress are worried that the federal government’s response is underpowered, underfunded, and overly focused on protecting hospitals — even as Change proved that weaknesses are widespread. Darius Tahir, NPR, 17 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for underpowered 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'underpowered.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underpowered was in 1905

Dictionary Entries Near underpowered

Cite this Entry

“Underpowered.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underpowered. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!