Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

entelechy

noun en·tel·e·chy \ en-ˈte-lə-kē , in- \

Definition of entelechy

plural entelechies
1 : the actualization of form-giving cause as contrasted with potential existence
2 : a hypothetical agency not demonstrable by scientific methods that in some vitalist doctrines is considered an inherent regulating and directing force in the development and functioning of an organism

Origin and Etymology of entelechy

Late Latin entelechia, from Greek entelecheia, from entelēs complete (from en- 2en- + telos end) + echein to have — more at telos, scheme

Learn More about entelechy

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about entelechy

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up entelechy? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games