First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1potential
adjective po·ten·tial \pə-ˈten(t)-shəl\
: capable of becoming real
Full Definition of POTENTIAL
1
: existing in possibility : capable of development into actuality <potential benefits>
2
: expressing possibility; specifically : of, relating to, or constituting a verb phrase expressing possibility, liberty, or power by the use of an auxiliary with the infinitive of the verb (as in “it may rain”)
— po·ten·tial·ly \-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)lē\ adverb
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Origin of POTENTIAL
Middle English potencial, from Late Latin potentialis, from potentia potentiality, from Latin, power, from potent-, potens
Synonym Discussion of POTENTIAL
latent, dormant, quiescent, potential mean not now showing signs of activity or existence. latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop <a latent desire for success>. dormant suggests the inactivity of something (as a feeling or power) as though sleeping <their passion had lain dormant>. quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity <the disease was quiescent>. potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have <a potential disaster>.
2potential
noun
: a chance or possibility that something will happen or exist in the future
: a quality that something has that can be developed to make it better
: an ability that someone has that can be developed to help that person become successful
Full Definition of POTENTIAL
1
a : something that can develop or become actual <a potential for violence> b : promise 2
2
a : any of various functions from which the intensity or the velocity at any point in a field may be readily calculated b : the work required to move a unit positive charge from a reference point (as at infinity) to a point in question c : potential difference
See potential defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of POTENTIAL
1817
Related to POTENTIAL
- Synonyms
- capability, eventuality, possibility, potentiality, prospect
Rhymes with POTENTIAL
POTENTIAL[1] Defined for Kids
1potential
adjective po·ten·tial \pə-ˈten-shəl\
Definition of POTENTIAL for Kids
: existing as a possibility : capable of becoming real <potential dangers>
— po·ten·tial·ly adverb <a potentially profitable business>
2potential
noun
Definition of POTENTIAL for Kids
1
: the chance or possibility that something will develop and become real <There is a potential for injury.>
2
: an ability or quality that can lead to success or excellence : promise <She has great potential as a musician.>
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