Search Dictionary
Definition of horsepower

horsepower

/ˈhɔːrsˌpaʊ.ər/
horse · pow · er
Plural:horsepower
JUMP TO:

horsepower Lexical Profile

horsepower Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A standard unit of power equal to 550 foot-pounds of work per second (approximately 745.7 watts), commonly used to measure the mechanical output of engines and motors.

Example

"The new sports car boasts an impressive engine that delivers over six hundred horsepower."

2

The raw power, capacity, or driving force of a person, organization, or system.

Example

"The tech company lacks the computing horsepower required to train such a massive artificial intelligence model."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for horsepower
Antonyms
View all antonyms for horsepower

• Nearby Words

hornwort
horse
horse chestnut
horsepower
horsepox
horseradish
horseshoe

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century by Scottish engineer James Watt to compare the output of his newly improved steam engines with the working power of draft horses, making the technology relatable to potential buyers.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Horsepower. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/horsepower
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.