potency

Everyday

1. How strong or powerful something is, especially a medicine, drug, poison or chemical. tree →
2. (formal) Power or influence: the potency of an idea. tree →

In the lessons

In science and health lessons: the potency of a medicine tells how strong its effect is, which is why doses must be measured carefully. In history or English, the «potency» of a speech or symbol means its power to move people.

Examples

• The potency of the medicine means you only need a small dose. tree →
• Some medicines lose their potency after their expiry date. tree →
• The snake's venom has great potency. tree →
• The speech showed the potency of words. tree →
• Scientists tested the potency of the new vaccine. tree →
• Strong sunlight can reduce the potency of vitamins. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Adjective: potent. Safety: never take more of a medicine than the label or doctor says; a potent medicine can be dangerous in large amounts.