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

Oh, and make sure to follow up with a moisturizer of your choice—these yeast-fighting shampoos are potent, but also a bit drying. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 20 Dec. 2024

Many vendors offer concentrated kratom extracts, which are significantly more potent than regular kratom powder. —Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 20 Dec. 2024

This potent formula features patented resorcinol technology, glycolic acid, and tranexamic acid to effectively fade discoloration and brighten your complexion. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Dec. 2024

The brutal disregard for natural and human life is consistent with that of The DRC and is particularly potent as the world fails Congolese women. —Akilah Sailers, Essence, 19 Dec. 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