1. The realization or actualization of potential; the state of being fully realized or complete.
Usage: philosophical; formal; plural of entelechy
2. In Aristotelian philosophy, the condition of a thing whose essence is fully realized; the soul or vital principle that actualizes matter.
Usage: philosophy; archaic; technical

Examples

• The entelechies of living organisms drive them toward growth and self-preservation.
• Aristotle believed that entelechies were the animating principles that gave form to matter.
• The artist's entelechies were finally realized in her completed masterpiece.
• Different species have different entelechies that guide their development.
• The philosopher argued that human entelechies include reason and moral virtue.
• The entelechies of a seed determine its growth into a mature plant.