potion

noun

po·​tion ˈpō-shən How to pronounce potion (audio)
: a mixture of liquids (such as liquor or medicine)

Examples of potion in a Sentence

He drank the fatal potion. The hero in the play is given a magic potion so that he will fall in love with the princess.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the fact that Shakespeare wrote about love potions, sleeping potions, and other fanciful elixirs isn’t conclusive evidence. Sam Kelly july 8, Literary Hub, 8 July 2025 To today's ear, the elixirs, potions and tonics sold at Haag sound like a traveling medicine man’s inventory: Swamp root, Danderine, Sloan’s Liniment, Catarrh Jelly, Wine of Cardue. Indianapolis Star, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Soda Potion: The electrifying effect of this potion is as mysterious as its recipe: an accidental combo of fantastic fizzy flavors. Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 The Magic of Afternoon Tea is inspired by myths and magic potions: treats include owls crafted from white chocolate and blueberry, the Excalibur’s Sword (a white chocolate and mango cheese cake) and the Book of Spells (a coffee, chocolate and almond Opera cake). Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for potion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pocioun, from Anglo-French poisun, pocioun drink, potion, from Latin potion-, potio, from potare to drink — more at potable

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of potion was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Potion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potion. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

potion

noun
po·​tion ˈpō-shən How to pronounce potion (audio)
: a mixture of liquids (as a medicine or poison)
Etymology

Middle English pocioun "a mixture of liquids," from early French poisun, pocioun (same meaning), from Latin potion-, potio "a drink, potion," from potare "to drink" — related to poison

Medical Definition

potion

noun
po·​tion ˈpō-shən How to pronounce potion (audio)
: a mixed drink (as of liquor) or dose (as of medicine)

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