Definition of: potency

(pōt′n·sē) noun plural ·cies
1. The quality of being potent; inherent ability; mental, moral, or physical power.
2. The power of effecting particular results: the potency of a drug or liquor.
3. In homeopathy, the efficacy of a drug as increased by dilution or attenuation; also, the degree to which such attenuation has been carried.
4. Power arising from external circumstances; authority: the potency of the prime minister; hence, power to move or influence.
5. Capacity to respond to certain influences; latent power. Also po′tence. [<L potentia]