capable Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective (usually followed by `of') having capacity or ability
    • capable of winning
    • capable of hard work
    • capable of walking on two feet
  2. adjective satellite possibly accepting or permitting
    subject; open.
    • a passage capable of misinterpretation
    • open to interpretation
    • an issue open to question
    • the time is fixed by the director and players and therefore subject to much variation
  3. adjective (followed by `of') having the temperament or inclination for
    • no one believed her capable of murder
  4. adjective satellite having the requisite qualities for
    adequate to; equal to; up to.
    • equal to the task
    • the work isn't up to the standard I require
  5. adjective satellite have the skills and qualifications to do things well
    able.
    • able teachers
    • a capable administrator
    • children as young as 14 can be extremely capable and dependable

WordNet

Ca"pa*ble adjective
Etymology
F. capable, LL. capabilis capacious, capable, fr. L. caper to take, contain. See Heave.
Definitions
  1. Possessing ability, qualification, or susceptibility; having capacity; of sufficient size or strength; as, a room capable of holding a large number; a castle capable of resisting a long assault.
    Concious of jou and capable of pain. Prior.
  2. Possessing adequate power; qualified; able; fully competent; as, a capable instructor; a capable judge; a mind capable of nice investigations.
    More capable to discourse of battles than to give them. Motley.
  3. Possessing legal power or capacity; as, a man capable of making a contract, or a will.
  4. Capacious; large; comprehensive. Obs. Shak. ✍ Capable is usually followed by of, sometimes by an infinitive. Syn. -- Able; competent; qualified; fitted; efficient; effective; skillful.

Webster 1913