potency

noun

po·​ten·​cy ˈpō-tᵊn(t)-sē 

plural potencies

1

a

: force, power

b

: the quality or state of being potent

c

: the ability or capacity to achieve or bring about a particular result

2

: potentiality sense 1

Synonyms of potency

• power
• strength
• energy
• muscle
• capacity

Examples of potency in a Sentence

The potency of her words changed many minds in the audience that night.

Any vitamin of high potency should only be taken in the proper dosage.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fresh root compounds lose their potency quickly, and air exposure can cause fermentation or mold growth. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 16 Mar. 2026

Each batch undergoes rigorous testing to ensure quality, purity and potency. —Jessica Moore, USA Today, 14 Mar. 2026

Goals have come fewer in the tourney, but its own top line of Annabelle Curran, Stephanie LeBlanc and Ella Morgan rival Milton’s in potency. —Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 14 Mar. 2026

But this form can still act as a laxative and is sometimes used to treat magnesium deficiency given its high potency, Shelgikar said. —Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 13 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

potency

noun

po·​ten·​cy ˈpōt-ᵊn-sē 

plural potencies

: the quality or state of being potent

vitamins of high potency

especially : power to bring about a certain result

Medical Definition

potency

noun

po·​ten·​cy ˈpōt-ᵊn-sē 

plural potencies

: the quality or state of being potent: as

a

: chemical or medicinal strength or efficacy

a drug's potency

b

: the ability to copulate

—usually used of the male

c

: initial inherent capacity for development of a particular kind

cells with a potency for eye formation