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

Data from research firm Antenna provided by Roku to Deadline points to the potency of sign-ups that come through Premium Subscriptions. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 17 Sep. 2026

Yes, getting started requires upfront investment, but reducing emissions, including N2O and other high-potency gases, can generate revenue and other business benefits. — Bill Flederbach, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2026

In fact, doing so can negatively impact your lavender’s overall potency. — Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 14 Sep. 2026

After brushing aside three domestic teams in warm-up matches, the All Blacks won the first Test in Johannesburg 33-16, scoring three second-half tries in a display of attacking potency. — Daniel Gallan, New York Times, 10 Sep. 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