Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Philosophy, especially Aristotelian) The state of being fully actualized or realized; the condition in which a potentiality has become an actuality. This term describes something that has achieved its complete, intended form or purpose, as opposed to existing merely as a possibility.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • For Aristotle, the soul is the entelechy of the body, its actualizing principle.
  • The artist saw the finished sculpture as the entelechy of the raw marble's potential.

Advanced Usage

• As a metaphysical concept: Often used in philosophical discussions about the nature of being, purpose, and development from potential to actual form.
  • The debate centered on whether a society's laws were an entelechy guiding it toward its ideal state.

Variants and Related Words

• Entelechial (adj): Pertaining to or having the nature of entelechy.
  • The philosopher described an entelechial process of growth.

Synonyms

• Actuality: The state of existing in fact, as opposed to being potential.
• Fulfillment: The achievement of something desired, promised, or predicted.
• Realization: The act of achieving something that was possible.

Antonyms

• Potentiality: The inherent capacity for growth, development, or coming into existence.
• Potency: The power or ability to do something; latent potential.

Noun

1. (Aristotle) the state of something that is fully realized; actuality as opposed to potentiality