power plant

noun

1
: an electric utility generating station
2
: an engine and related parts supplying the motive power of a self-propelled object (such as a rocket or automobile)

Examples of power plant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This layout alters how a power plant operates over its life cycle. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026 That distinction means the emissions trend cannot be explained only by looking at power plants and transportation. — Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 Building new power plants, expanding grids, and permitting infrastructure takes years, often decades. — Kathleen “katie” McGinty, Fortune, 6 July 2026 The demolition of a nearby coal fired power plant left behind a network of transmission lines and electricity customers. — Adam Burke, NPR, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for power plant

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of power plant was in 1871

Rhymes for power plant

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Browse Nearby Words

power pack
power plant
power play
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Cite this Entry

“Power plant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/power%20plant. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

power plant

noun
: a building in which electric power is generated

More from Merriam-Webster on power plant

Nglish: Translation of power plant for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about power plant

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