all-powerful

The adjective 'all-powerful' is a transparent Modern English compound, directly combining native elements to create an intensifying meaning. The first element, 'all,' derives from a common Proto-Germanic root meaning "whole" and acts as a universal amplifier. The core noun 'power' entered English via Anglo-French, tracing back to the Latin verb posse (to be able), which itself originates from the Proto-Indo-European root poti- meaning "powerful, lord." The suffix '-ful,' of Germanic origin, transforms the noun into an adjective meaning "possessing the qualities of." Thus, the literal construction "full of complete power" logically yields the modern sense of omnipotence, often used in religious contexts or to describe supreme authority.

Structure: all (entirely) + power (ability) + ful (full of) - all: From Old English eall, meaning "entire, whole, every." In this compound, it functions as an intensifier meaning "completely." - power: From Anglo-French poer, Old French povoir, ultimately from Vulgar Latin potēre (to be able). It functions as the core noun denoting ability, strength, or authority. - ful: From Old English -ful, an adjective-forming suffix meaning "full of" or "characterized by."