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.

Like baking soda, it should be stored somewhere cool and dry to maintain its potency. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 26 June 2026 Aromatherapy and pheromone products can vary based on a number of factors, including potency and your dog’s sensitivities. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 2 July 2026 That tradeoff is why some experts argue gummies, despite lower potency, can outperform stronger formats for people who would otherwise forget. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026 Incidentally, their highest tally of 27 was clocked up six days earlier, in the goalless draw with Cape Verde — albeit with much less attacking potency. — Mark Carey, New York Times, 2 July 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 7 Jul. 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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