potency

[poht-n-see]

noun

plural

potencies 

1. the state or quality of being potent.

   Synonyms: potential, capacity, energy, force, strength

2. power; authority.

   the potency of God's word.

3. efficacy; effectiveness; strength.

4. capacity to be, become, or develop; potentiality.

5. a person or thing exerting power or influence.

6. Mathematics.,  cardinal number.

potency

/ ˈpəʊtənsɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being potent

2. latent or inherent capacity for growth or development

Other Word Forms

• overpotency noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of potency¹

From the Latin word potentia, dating back to 1530–40. See potent ¹, -ency

Word History and Origins

Origin of potency¹

C16: from Latin potentia power, from posse to be able

Example Sentences

"Historically many petrol and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency," they said.

From BBC

But officials and experts say it’s nevertheless a reminder of the seasonal potency of the still-circulating virus.

From Los Angeles Times

The Riverside University Health System recommended that individuals carry naloxone to treat someone overdosing on fentanyl and avoid using carfentanil even in small doses due to the unpredictability and potency of the substance.

From Los Angeles Times

The big question, to this point, is how much Ohtani’s return to pitching has impacted his potency with the bat.

From Los Angeles Times

Another adviser says "there is hope" – progress in the NHS will "take on more potency".

From BBC

Related Words

• capability 
• efficacy 
• efficiency 
• vigor 

When To Use

What does potency mean?

Potency means strength and effectiveness.It is most commonly used in the context of medications and drugs in reference to how strong or effective they are or are capable of being.It can also be used in a more general way to refer to the power or effectiveness of someone or something, such as a leader or a statement.Potency is the noun form of the adjective potent, which generally means powerful but is commonly applied to things that produce a powerful physical or chemical effect.Example: The medication will lose its potency if kept in the sunlight.