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adj. 1. Possessing inner or physical strength; powerful. 2. a. Exerting or capable of exerting strong physiological or chemical effects: potent liquor; a potent toxin. b. Exerting or capable of exerting strong influence; cogent: potent arguments. 3. Having great control or authority: "The police were potent only so long as they were feared" (Thomas Burke). 4. Able to achieve and maintain an erection that allows for sexual intercourse. Used of a male. [Middle English, from Latin potēns, potent-, present participle of posse, to be able; see poti- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] potent·ly adv. potent·ness n. |
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