Definition of potent

The word "potent" has its roots in the Latin language, where it was originally "potēns" or "possēns." In Latin, these words meant "having power" or "able to do something." The Old French language brought the word to English, where it was adapted as "potente" or "potent." In Middle English, the word was spelled "potent," and it retained the same meaning: having great power or ability. The Latin root "potēns" was also the origin of other English words, such as "potency" (the quality of being powerful or effective), "potentate" (a powerful ruler or leader), and "potentia" (the ability to do something). Today, "potent" is commonly used to describe substances that have strong or powerful effects, such as medicine, chemicals, or alcohol. In general, it is still associated with having a great degree of power or ability.