potency

noun

po·ten·cy ˈpō-tᵊn(t)-sē

plural potencies

Synonyms of potency

: force, power

: the quality or state of being potent

: the ability or capacity to achieve or bring about a particular result

: potentiality sense 1

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.

Hemp industry representatives welcomed the reprieve, urging Congress to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework, including potency caps and age restrictions, to ensure public safety. — A.j. Herrington, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026 This step is supposed to verify the batch of medicine meets safety and potency requirements. — Ed Silverman, STAT, 9 Aug. 2026 Or rather, the potency of honesty to bring creativity and, yes, the highest intelligence, to AI. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 7 Aug. 2026 Drug dealers mix fentanyl with other drugs, including heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine, because of its potency and low cost, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose, according to the DEA. — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Potency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potency. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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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

: chemical or medicinal strength or efficacy

a drug's potency

: the ability to copulate

—usually used of the male

: initial inherent capacity for development of a particular kind

cells with a potency for eye formation

potency

noun

Synonyms of potency

Examples of potency in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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