1. having insufficient power or energy to operate effectively
Usage: often used of engines, motors, or mechanical devices
2. lacking sufficient resources, authority, or capability to be effective
Usage: used of organizations, systems, or people

Examples

• The small engine was underpowered for such a heavy truck.
• Her laptop felt underpowered when running the new software.
• The underpowered committee couldn’t enforce its recommendations.
• The car’s underpowered motor struggled up the steep hill.
• The agency was underpowered to handle the crisis effectively.
• His underpowered argument failed to convince the jury.
• The underpowered boat moved slowly against the current.