First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
ability
noun abil·i·ty \ə-ˈbi-lə-tē\
: the power or skill to do something
plural abil·i·ties
Full Definition of ABILITY
1
a : the quality or state of being able <ability of soil to hold water>; especially : physical, mental, or legal power to perform b : competence in doing : skill
2
: natural aptitude or acquired proficiency <students with different abilities>
See ability defined for English-language learners
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Origin of ABILITY
Middle English abilite, from Anglo-French, from Latin habilitat-, habilitas, from habilis apt, skillful — more at able
Related to ABILITY
- Synonyms
- capability, capableness, capacity, competence, competency, faculty
Rhymes with ABILITY
ABILITY Defined for Kids
ability
noun abil·i·ty \ə-ˈbi-lə-tē\
plural abil·i·ties
Definition of ABILITY for Kids
1
: power to do something <The cleaner has the ability to kill germs.>
2
: natural talent or acquired skill <great musical ability>
Synonym Discussion of ABILITY
ability and talent mean physical or mental power to do or accomplish something. ability may be used of an inborn power to do something especially well. <Many athletes have the ability to run fast.> talent is used for an unusual ability to create things. <You should develop your talent for writing short stories.>
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