potent

1 of 2

adjective (1)

po·​tent ˈpō-tᵊnt 

1

: having or wielding force, authority, or influence : powerful

2

: achieving or bringing about a particular result : effective

3

a

: chemically or medicinally effective

a potent vaccine

b

: rich in a characteristic constituent

a potent drink

4

: able to copulate

—usually used of the male

potently adverb

potent

2 of 2

adjective (2)

of a heraldic cross

: having flat bars across the ends of the arms see cross illustration

Synonyms

Adjective (1)

• big
• concentrated
• full
• full-bodied
• heady
• lusty
• muscular
• plush
• rich
• robust
• strong

Examples of potent in a Sentence

Adjective (1)

a potent tea that is the perfect morning pick-me-up

a potent argument for expanding our program of space exploration

potent medicine that can be obtained through a doctor's prescription

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Both the earthy, potent red variety and its mild and floral green sister are foundational ingredients in Chinese five-spice, chili crisp, and myriad braises, noodle dishes, and stir-fries. —Megan Zhang, Saveur, 13 Nov. 2024

The Hotel Bar specializes in upscale cocktails, like the potent espresso martini, which promises a quick jump start. —Kathy A. McDonald, Variety, 5 Nov. 2024

Her support is particularly potent in Michigan (home to a large Arab American population), Arizona and Wisconsin, Reuters reports, citing a poll from an advocacy organization, the Council on American-Islamic Relations. —Stephen Pastis, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

To make matters worse for the Bucs, injuries to WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin have made their offense less potent. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective (1)

Middle English, from Latin potent-, potens (present participle of posse to be able), from Latin potis, pote able; akin to Goth brūthfaths bridegroom, Greek posis husband, Sanskrit pati master

Adjective (2)

obsolete English potent crutch

First Known Use

Adjective (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective (2)

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

potent

adjective

po·​tent

ˈpōt-ᵊnt

1

: having or wielding force, authority, or influence : powerful

potent arguments for a strong defense

2

a

: very effective

potent medicine

b

: rich in a particular quality : strong

potent tea

potently adverb

Medical Definition

potent

adjective

po·​tent ˈpōt-ᵊnt 

1

: having force or power

2

: chemically or medicinally effective

a potent vaccine

3

: able to copulate

—usually used of the male

potently adverb