able
adjective
1. (usually followed by `to') having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something
- able to swim
- she was able to program her computer
- we were at last able to buy a car
2. have the skills and qualifications to do things well
- able teachers
- a capable administrator
- children as young as 14 can be extremely capable and dependable
Similar word(s): competent, capable
3. having inherent physical or mental ability or capacity
- able to learn
- human beings are able to walk on two feet
- Superman is able to leap tall buildings
Similar word(s): capable
4. having a strong healthy body
- every able-bodied young man served in the army
Similar word(s): fit
Sentences with able as an adjective:
- I’ll see you as soon as I’m able.
- With that obstacle removed, I am now able to proceed with my plan.
- I’m only able to visit you when I have other work here.
- That cliff is able to be climbed.
- After the past week of forced marches, only half the men are fully able.
- He was born to an able family.
- The chairman was also an able sailor.
- He is able to practice law in six states.
noun
1. A word that is used in place of the letter "A" during communication.
verb
1. (transitive, obsolete) To make ready. [Attested from around (1150 to 1350) until the late 16th century.]
2. (transitive, obsolete) To make capable; to enable. [Attested from around (1350 to 1470) until the late 19th century.]
3. (transitive, obsolete) To dress. [Attested from around (1350 to 1470) until the late 15th century.]
4. (transitive, obsolete) To give power to; to reinforce; to confirm. [Attested from around (1350 to 1470) until the mid 17th century.]
5. (transitive, obsolete) To vouch for; to guarantee. [Attested from the late 16th century until the early 17th century.]