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

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health released in July 2026 found marijuana use also remains elevated, despite health concerns linked to growing cannabis potency. — Brian Mann, NPR, 24 Aug. 2026

High-potency formulations of marijuana may carry greater risks for problematic use. — Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Now he will be paired with Currie and the collective potency of Sierra Canyon. — Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 19 Aug. 2026

This step is supposed to verify the batch of medicine meets safety and potency requirements. — Ed Silverman, STAT, 9 Aug. 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