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

Most doses were in the 5- to 10-mg range, a standard dose for casual marijuana users, though high-potency brands with 50, 60, and even 100 mg of THC — intense amounts likely to overwhelm all but heavy users — were also easy to find. — Sarah Todd, STAT, 21 July 2026

Congress could also develop a dose limit that permits low-dose adult beverages while excluding high-potency products. — Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

These platforms have enabled connections between qualified buyers and confidential opportunities, reducing unnecessary inquiries and increasing the potency and effectiveness of offers. — William Jones, USA Today, 20 July 2026

Like other products, antihistamines lose their potency and effectiveness over time. — Makena Gera, PEOPLE, 18 July 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