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

• energy
• firepower
• force
• horsepower
• might
• muscle
• potence
• power
• puissance
• sinew
• strength
• vigor

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

Using a vitamin C serum consistently and storing it well (in a cool, dark place) to preserve its potency can result in noticeable skin improvements—but not overnight. —Kristin Canning, SELF, 19 June 2025

The cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis products of different potencies and different forms, from inhaled products to edibles, remain unknown. —Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 17 June 2025

The imagery matters more than anything else The sheer potency of the Padilla video is more powerful than anything else. —Niall Stanage, The Hill, 13 June 2025

Arriving on the private island, surrounded by the glittering, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, immediately introduces you to a world steeped in the potency of nature. —World Of Hyatt, AFAR Media, 10 June 2025

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