The Etymology of “PowerPoint”
Despite its global association with slide presentations today, the name “PowerPoint” was not originally coined by Microsoft—and it didn’t always refer to software.
The term was first used in the early 1980s by a company called Forethought, Inc., which developed presentation software for Apple Macintosh. They named their product “Presenter,” but due to trademark issues, they had to choose a new name.
According to company co-founder Robert Gaskins, the name “PowerPoint” was suggested because it conveyed two key ideas:
- Power – representing empowerment, effectiveness, and impact.
- Point – referring to the act of making a point or delivering a message clearly.
So, in its original English sense, “PowerPoint” meant “the power to make your point.”
From Concept to Global Standard
Before PowerPoint, business presentations were created using overhead projectors, physical slides, or hand-drawn charts. PowerPoint revolutionized communication by digitizing this process.
Today, “PowerPoint” is often used generically (like “Kleenex” or “Xerox”) to refer to any slide-based presentation—even those made with Google Slides, Keynote, or Canva.
Why the Name Still Matters
Understanding the original intent behind “PowerPoint” reminds us that great presentations aren’t about flashy animations—they’re about clarity, persuasion, and purpose.
Whether you're pitching an idea, teaching a class, or reporting quarterly results, the goal remains the same: use your slides to make your point with power.