potency

Noun

WordNet 3.0

Noun (4)

  1. the power or right to give orders or make decisions“he has the authority to issue warrants”“deputies are given authorization to make arrests”“a place of potency in the state”Synonyms: authorityauthorizationauthorisationdominancesay-so
  2. capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects“the toxin's potency”“the strength of the drinks”Synonyms: effectivenessstrength
  3. the inherent capacity for coming into beingSynonyms: potentialpotentiality
  4. the state of being potent; a male's capacity to have sexual intercourseSynonyms: potence
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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Potency \Po"ten*cy\, n. [L. potentia, from potens, -entis, potent. See Potent, and cf. Potance, Potence, Puissance.] 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. [1913 Webster]

A place of potency and away o' the state. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

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