Manpower - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Manpower refers to the total number of people available for work or service, especially in the armed forces or in a specific industry. It emphasizes the physical strength and capacity of individuals to perform tasks. It is often used in contexts where physical labor or large numbers of people are required. Manpower is crucial for military operations, construction projects, and other labor-intensive activities. Think of it like the raw muscle needed to get a job done. It's less about skills and more about sheer numbers and physical capability.

Etymology

The term "manpower" is relatively old, dating back to the late 19th century. It’s a direct compound of "man," referring to a human being, and "power," indicating strength or force. Originally, it strongly emphasized the physical strength and capabilities of male workers. Over time, its meaning has broadened to include both men and women, though its historical connotations sometimes persist. It reflects the traditional view of labor as primarily physical.

Related Words

Examples

• "The construction project required a significant amount of manpower to complete on time."
• "The army's manpower reserves were depleted after the long conflict."
• "The factory needed to increase its manpower to meet the production demands."
• "The government invested in training programs to improve the quality of its manpower."

Encouragement

While "manpower" is a useful term, be aware of its historical connotations. Use it when you want to emphasize the sheer number of workers involved in a task. Keep expanding your vocabulary! 🧠

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