Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words (original) (raw)

prowess

noun

1. exceptional valor, bravery, or ability, especially in combat or battle.
2. exceptional or superior ability, skill, or strength:
   his prowess as a public speaker.
3. a valiant or daring deed.

/ ˈpraʊɪs /

noun

1. outstanding or superior skill or ability
2. bravery or fearlessness, esp in battle

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Other Words From

• prowessed adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of prowess1

First recorded in

1250–1300; Middle English, from Old French proesse, proece “goodness, bravery,” equivalent to prou prow 2

+ -esse, from Latin -itia -ice

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Word History and Origins

Origin of prowess1

C13: from Old French proesce, from prou good; see

proud

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Example Sentences

Now Democrats hold 93 of 120 seats in the California Legislature, casually dubbed a “super supermajority,” and the party’s prowess in California is exposing the downsides of extreme one-party rule.

On Monday, a night in which the Dodgers showed off their defensive prowess in moving within one game of a sweep of the New York Yankees, Hernández delivered the play of the game.

I thought give him a little bit of credit for his attacking prowess and defending well throughout the course of the season.

Sanam Vakil, a Middle East analyst at Chatham House in London, said Iran will be reluctant to openly attack Israel now because its own military prowess and reputation have suffered blows in recent weeks.

While the midfielder has remained a permanent fixture in Manchester United's starting line-up, her prowess in front of goal has faltered for both club and country.