1. A relative measure of the application of energy or the use of force, defined by relation e.g. greater or lesser, high or low, according to relationships with other powers in context. 2. Inherent, significant force, 3. In magical lore this word can also refer to a natural or celestial agent that governs one or more spheres of influence, such as a deity, archangel, or similar, named being or unnamed agents, e.g. powers that be or simply the powers.