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

The second quantum trend was an increase in the potency of error correcting codes. —Quanta Magazine, 3 Apr. 2026

Instead of competing solely on potency or flavor, companies are building products around specific consumer needs. —Thomas Andersen, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2026

Marijuana is far more dangerous than commonly understood, especially today’s ultra-high-potency products. —Kevin A. Sabet, STAT, 1 Apr. 2026

These formulas are designed to defend and restore the skin barrier and feature concentrated botanical ingredients that are packaged in ultraviolet-protective glass, aimed at preserving potency. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 31 Mar. 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