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Prowess is a word with a lot to be proud of. Not only has it performed gallantly for the English language since the 13th century, but it has stayed relatively stalwart in hewing to its original meaning, which is quite a flex. When prowess first joined the ranks of the lexicon, it could be used to refer to bravery, skill, and valor—especially those virtues as encountered in military contexts—or to individual acts of derring-do. The latter was usually used in the plural, as when people waxed rhapsodic about the “prowesses” of knights or some such. Today’s “extraordinary ability” meaning, which developed in the 17th century, tends to stick to the singular form, as when it’s used to describe those with intellectual prowess, or to someone known for their prowess as a fundraiser.
Synonyms
Examples of prowess in a Sentence
Umar Shakir, The Verge, 23 Apr. 2024
Known for its razor thinness, the model’s latest feat is a flying tourbillon set within a case measuring just 2 mm—proof that the company can deliver both technical and design prowess.
—Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2024
The company touted its more than 1 billion followers on social media, as well as its marketing prowess, while also tooting its own horn.
—Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Apr. 2024
So did my change from a heavy red meat diet to vegetarianism change my prowess in the gym?
—Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 18 Apr. 2024
And then there’s Reinhart’s prowess on both sides of special teams.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 7 Apr. 2024
That’s a part of her appeal aside from her musical prowess.
—Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 15 Apr. 2024
In addition to her musical prowess, the star has also launched a series of lifestyle brands, including fashion line L.A.M.B., Harajuku Lovers and eyewear line gx by Gwen Stefani, earning her more than $1 billion in retail sales.
—Tabitha Parent, Peoplemag, 13 Apr. 2024
Plus, an intra-league trade, especially to a Western Conference competitor, would result in the need to play against Reynoso and be subject to his playmaking prowess at the Loons’ own expense in the standings.
—Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 12 Apr. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prowess.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near prowess
Cite this Entry
“Prowess.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prowess. Accessed 2 May. 2024.
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prowess
noun
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