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

Like baking soda, it should be stored somewhere cool and dry to maintain its potency. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 26 June 2026

Why Mushroom Powder Potency Depends on Extraction Mushroom powder is often pitched as the most potent format, but potency is not automatic. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 2026

That tradeoff is why some experts argue gummies, despite lower potency, can outperform stronger formats for people who would otherwise forget. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026

This maximizes the efficiency and potency of the ingredient’s plumping, hydrating, wrinkle-filling, fine-line smoothing benefits. — Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 24 June 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