# entelechy

> English word · Noun · IPA /ɛnˈtɛləki/

## Definitions
1. The complete realisation and final form of some potential concept or function; the conditions under which a potential thing becomes actualized.
2. The complete realisation and final form of some potential concept or function; the conditions under which a potential thing becomes actualized.
3. A particular type of motivation, need for self-determination, and inner strength directing life and growth to become all one is capable of being; the need to actualize one's beliefs; having both a personal vision and the ability to actualize that vision from within.

## Etymology
From Late Latin entelechia, from Ancient Greek ἐντελέχεια (entelékheia), coined by Aristotle from ἐντελής (entelḗs, “complete, finished, perfect”) (from τέλος (télos, “end, fruition, accomplishment”)) + ἔχω (ékhō, “to have”).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/entelechy