po·ten·ti·ate Pronunciation (pe-ten-she-at) tr.v. po·ten·ti·at·ed, po·ten·ti·at·ing, po·ten·ti·ates 1. To make potent or powerful. 2. To enhance or increase the effect of (a drug). 3. To promote or strengthen (a biochemical or physiological action or effect). [From Latin potentia, power; see potential.]