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

Consumers also moved toward stronger, higher-potency products. — Dario Sabaghi, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

There’s texture and feel here that’s truly special for a car of this potency. — Jason Barlow, Robb Report, 7 July 2026

Conventional insulin can lose potency when exposed to elevated temperatures or agitation, requiring careful handling throughout distribution and use. — Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 6 July 2026

Incidentally, their highest tally of 27 was clocked up six days earlier, in the goalless draw with Cape Verde — albeit with much less attacking potency. — Mark Carey, New York Times, 2 July 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