potency Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the power or right to give orders or make decisions
    authority; say-so; authorisation; dominance; authorization.
    • he has the authority to issue warrants
    • deputies are given authorization to make arrests
    • a place of potency in the state
  2. noun capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects
    strength; effectiveness.
    • the toxin's potency
    • the strength of the drinks
  3. noun the inherent capacity for coming into being
    potential; potentiality.
  4. noun the state of being potent; a male's capacity to have sexual intercourse
    potence.

WordNet

Po"ten*cy noun
Etymology
L. potentia, from potens, -entis, potent. See Potent, and cf. Potance, Potence, Puissance.
Definitions
  1. The quality or state of being potent; physical or moral power; inherent strength; energy; ability to effect a purpose; capability; efficacy; influence. "Drugs of potency." Hawthorne.
    A place of potency and away o' the state. Shak.

Webster 1913