entelechy
/ɛnˈtɛləki/ noun
Forms entelechies entelech entelechia entelechie
- noun (Aristotelian metaphysics) The complete realisation and final form of some potential concept or function; the conditions under which a potential thing becomes actualized.
- noun (specifically) In the metaphysics of Aristotle (384–322 B.C.E.) and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (1646–1716): a soul; a monad (Leibniz).
- noun (chiefly philosophy) 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”).
Webster’s 1913
- noun An actuality; a conception completely actualized, in distinction from mere potential existence.
Sources: Wiktionary · Webster’s 1913 — from the Wiktionary entry “entelechy”, CC BY-SA 4.0. Details