Able Definition & Meaning

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"
  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"
  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 for able

capable adj

(usually followed by `of') having capacity or ability; "capable of winning"; "capable of hard work

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms
competent adj

properly or sufficiently qualified or capable or efficient; "a competent typist" adequate for the purpose

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms
fit adj

meeting adequate standards for a purpose; "a fit subject for discussion"; "it is fit and proper that you be there

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms
healthy adj

having or indicating good health in body or mind; free from infirmity or disease; "a rosy healthy baby

♫ Rhymes ↔ Synonyms

"Able" in song lyrics

See how able is used in real songs:

  • "Perfecter of the faith, wait, is He great? Let me demonstrate, I'm able"
    Ambassador — Selah
  • "I guess you ain't able"
    Dre Dog (Andre Nickatina) f/ Dubee — Fly Like a Bird
  • "Back and forth to sacrifice but be always willin and able?"
    Arsonists — Millionaire

Words that rhyme with able

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Usage tips for "able"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "able" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for able to find words that pair well.

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♫ Rhymes with able 🔬 Words containing able

Frequently asked questions

What does able mean?
(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" 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" having inherent physical or mental ability or capacity; "able to learn
What part of speech is able?
Able is an adjective.
How many definitions does able have?
Able has 4 definitions across 1 part of speech (adjective).

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