"able" Definition

Definitions for the word "able" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. superl.
Fit; adapted; suitable.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. superl.
Having sufficient power, strength, force, skill, means, or resources of any kind to accomplish the object; possessed of qualifications rendering competent for some end; competent; qualified; capable; as, an able workman, soldier, seaman, a man able to work; a mind able to reason; a person able to be generous; able to endure pain; able to play on a piano.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. superl.
Specially: Having intellectual qualifications, or strong mental powers; showing ability or skill; talented; clever; powerful; as, the ablest man in the senate; an able speech.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. superl.
Legally qualified; possessed of legal competence; as, able to inherit or devise property.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. a.
To make able; to enable; to strengthen.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. a.
To vouch for.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. adj.
(abler, ablest) 1 (often foll. By to + infin.; used esp. In is able, will be able, etc., replacing tenses of can) having the capacity or power (not able to come). 2 talented, clever. ably adv. [latin habilis]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "able" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "able" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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