Able – Definition & Meaning

The word “able” is a common term that is used in everyday language. It is used to describe someone or something that has the ability to do something or is capable of something. The word “able” has many different meanings and associations, and it is important to understand these in order to use the word correctly.

Definitions

The word “able” is an adjective that is used to describe someone or something that has the ability to do something or is capable of something. It can also be used to describe someone who is skilled or talented in a particular area. The word “able” can also be used to describe something that is of a high quality or standard.

Origin

The word “able” comes from the Old French word “able”, which means “capable”. The word has its roots in the Latin word “habilis”, which means “able, fit, skillful”.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word “able” means “having the power, skill, means, or opportunity to do something”. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “able” as “having sufficient power, skill, or resources to do something”. The Cambridge Dictionary defines “able” as “having the necessary skill, knowledge, or strength to do something”.

Associations

The word “able” is often associated with positive qualities such as competence, skill, talent, and capability. It is also associated with success and achievement, as someone who is able to do something well is more likely to be successful.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of the word “able” include capable, competent, skilled, talented, proficient, and qualified.

Antonyms

Some antonyms of the word “able” include incapable, incompetent, unskilled, untalented, and unqualified.

The same root words

The word “able” shares its root with other words such as “habitat”, “habitual”, and “habilitation”. These words all have to do with the idea of being capable or fitting for a particular situation or environment.

Example Sentences

1. She is able to speak three languages fluently.
2. The project was completed on time thanks to the able leadership of the project manager.
3. He is an able athlete who has won many awards for his performance.
4. The company only hires able and qualified candidates for their positions.
5. The new employee proved to be very able and quickly became a valuable member of the team.