# horsepower

**Pronunciation:** ˈhɔːrspaʊər · HORS-pow-er

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

A unit of power equal to 746 watts, traditionally used to measure the output of engines and motors.

## Examples

- The tractor has enough horsepower to pull heavy machinery across the muddy field.
- Engineers are constantly trying to increase the horsepower of electric vehicle motors.
- He boasted about the horsepower of his motorcycle, claiming it was the fastest in the city.

## Synonyms

- power — The general capacity to do work or produce energy.
- output — The total amount of work or energy produced by a system.
- wattage — A measure of power specifically in watts, often used for electrical devices.
- performance — Refers to the overall capability and efficiency of an engine.

## Common patterns

- have [number] horsepower — describing the power rating of a vehicle — This truck has 400 horsepower.
- measured in horsepower — the unit used for a measurement — Engine output is typically measured in horsepower.

## Collocations

- generate horsepower — The engine is designed to generate significant horsepower at high speeds.
- increase horsepower — Modifying the exhaust system can help increase the car's horsepower.
- brake horsepower — The manufacturer lists the engine's brake horsepower at 300.

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