able
/ˈeɪ.bl̩/ adjective B1- Having the necessary powers or the needed resources to accomplish a task. · She is able to lift the box without assistance.
- Free from constraints preventing completion of task; permitted to; not prevented from. · In a democratic world you'd be able to say what you thought wherever you were.· I'll see you as soon as I'm able.
- Gifted with skill, intelligence, knowledge, or competence. · The chairman was also an able sailor.
- Legally qualified or competent. · He is able to practice law in six states.
- Capable of performing all the requisite duties; as an able seaman.
Comparative abler · Superlative ablest
From the library
“Gently, gently,” said the old man, with a smile; “and by your leave I will use your purse moderately, for they would say, if they saw me buy too many things at a time, that I had been obliged to await your return, in order to be able to purchase them.”
Miss Bennet had not been able to hear of his coming without changing colour.
The Cat was no longer able to get at them and perceived that she must tempt them forth by some device.
Of course the truck was a thousand times bigger than any of the mice who were to draw it; but when all the mice had been harnessed, they were able to pull it quite easily.
Other matches
Learn able in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.