pow: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Informal, Onomatopoeic
Quick answer
What does “pow” mean?
An exclamation or onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of an explosion, a heavy blow, or a punch.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An exclamation or onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of an explosion, a heavy blow, or a punch.
Used in comic strips and informal speech to represent a sudden impact, explosion, or a striking visual effect; can also refer to a showy, flashy quality.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core usage, though more prevalent in American comics and pop culture (e.g., Batman's 'POW!').
Connotations
Equally cartoonish and informal in both dialects.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English due to historical prevalence in US comic books.
Grammar
How to Use “pow” in a Sentence
[POW!] (as a standalone interjection)with a [noun] (e.g., Pow! With a single punch)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “pow” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He powed the villain in the jaw. (extremely informal/narrative)
American English
- The superhero powed his way through the wall. (extremely informal/narrative)
adjective
British English
- The design needs a bit more pow to stand out.
American English
- She added some pow to the presentation with bold graphics.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used in formal business contexts.
Academic
Only in analyses of onomatopoeia, comics, or popular culture.
Everyday
Used playfully or to narrate an action humorously, especially with children.
Technical
Not used in technical registers.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “pow”
- Using it as a standard verb or noun in formal writing.
- Misspelling as 'pau' or 'pouw'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is classified as an onomatopoeic interjection and, by extension, an informal noun. It is recognized in dictionaries due to its established cultural usage, particularly in comics.
Almost never. Its use is restricted to informal narratives, dialogue, or discussions of onomatopoeia and popular culture.
'Pow' typically implies a sharp, impactful blow or punch (often physical contact). 'Boom' suggests a deep, resonant explosion. 'Bang' is a sharper, louder noise, often of a gunshot or door slamming.
As a noun referring to multiple instances of the sound or effect, it can be pluralized irregularly as 'pows' (e.g., 'The page was filled with pows and bams.').
An exclamation or onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of an explosion, a heavy blow, or a punch.
Pow: in British English it is pronounced /paʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /paʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Pow! Right in the kisser.' (a catchphrase from US comedy)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine the word 'POW' written in a jagged, bright yellow bubble in a comic book, right next where a superhero's fist hits a villain.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOUND IS FORCE; IMPACT IS A VISUAL/ AURAL EXPLOSION.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'pow' LEAST likely to be appropriate?