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

This potency can be a good thing for quelling inflammation—but also calls for caution. —Sarah Garone, Health, 9 Dec. 2025

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 The product comes in six strength options, ranging from a sensitive skin-friendly option to an expert-level potency. —Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 9 Dec. 2025

Choose high-quality products from reputable brands that test for purity and potency. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 9 Dec. 2025

In addition to Kreider’s arrival via trade over the summer, the emergence of 19-year-old Beckett Sennecke has given the Ducks even more potency in the paint. —Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 6 Dec. 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