potency potency /ˈpoʊtənsi/

noun

1. () The power or right to give orders or make decisions  ( authorisation [British] , authorization , dominance , authority , potency , say-so )
   the power or right to give orders or make decisions
    He has the authority to issue warrants
   he has the authority to issue warrants
    Deputies are given authorization to make arrests
   deputies are given authorization to make arrests
    A place of potency in the state
   a place of potency in the state
   
2. () Capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects  ( potency , strength , effectiveness )
   capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects
    The toxin's potency
   the toxin's potency
    The strength of the drinks
   the strength of the drinks
   
3. The state of being potent; a male's capacity to have sexual intercourse  ( potence , potency )
   the state of being potent; a male's capacity to have sexual intercourse
   
4. The inherent capacity for coming into being  ( potency , potentiality , potential )
   the inherent capacity for coming into being
     The young athlete showed great potential in her chosen sport.
   The young athlete showed great potential in her chosen sport.