potency

noun

po·​ten·​cy ˈpō-tᵊn(t)-sē How to pronounce potency (audio)
plural potencies
1
a
b
: the quality or state of being potent
c
: the ability or capacity to achieve or bring about a particular result
2

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Canadian entrepreneur champions the potency of visualization, and has tailored a section of her platform, called Writing Activations, to helping subscribers carve out their dream life. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 These variations can impact the efficacy and potency of your cleaning supplies. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Oct. 2024 The character navigates a couple of major changes over the course of the play, yet somehow feels underdeveloped in ways that undercut the potency of his big moments. Duante Beddingfield, Detroit Free Press, 25 Oct. 2024 Steel won by nearly 5 percent, demonstrating the political potency of Asian-on-Asian Communist smears. Yiyun Li, Harper's Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for potency 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of potency was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near potency

Cite this Entry

“Potency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potency. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

potency

noun
po·​ten·​cy ˈpōt-ᵊn-sē How to pronounce potency (audio)
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 How to pronounce potency (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on potency

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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