The **bolded word "potency"** in the question means **"power"**. In this context, it refers to the strength or effectiveness of the medicine.
Here's why "power" is the correct meaning for the word "potency" in this sentence:
1. **Synonyms**: The word "potency" is often used interchangeably with "power" when describing the strength or effectiveness of something. In this case, the sentence is highlighting how strong or effective the medicine was in surprising the individual.
2. **Impact**: The word "potency" implies a strong impact or effectiveness, which aligns with the idea that the medicine had a significant effect on the person who took it.
3. **Example**: If we substitute the word "potency" with "power" in the sentence, it would read: "She was surprised by the power of the medicine." This substitution clarifies that the medicine's strength or effectiveness was unexpected to her.
Therefore, in the context of the sentence provided, the correct meaning of "potency" is **"power."**
