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

The candidates in Monday’s election have recognized the potency of this moment for Canadians, and the heavy impact of tariffs on the Canadian economy: About 80 percent of Canada’s exports are sent to the United States. —Matina Stevis-Gridneff, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2025

Even if this contest underwhelms in the grand scheme of their total rivalry, the two prove that wrestling can provide a narrative draw that competes with any other form of fiction in terms of pure potency. —Daniel Dockery, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2025

Always start with a small serving to gauge its potency and effects. —Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 2 Apr. 2025

Cutting, drying, and curing your buds properly is essential to ensure the best flavor and potency. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 18 Mar. 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