The process of gaining or giving power, confidence, and control over one's life circumstances. It involves developing the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to influence one's environment and make meaningful choices.
From 'empower' (1650s) meaning to invest with power, from 'en-' meaning to put in, plus 'power' from Old French 'poeir'. The psychological and social justice meanings developed in the 1960s civil rights movement.
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