able meaning and definition

ABLE adjective

Definition of 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"; "able to get a grant for the project"
   • antonym: unable
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"
   • synonyms: 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"
4. having a strong healthy body
   • "an able seaman"; "every able-bodied young man served in the army"
   • synonyms: able-bodied