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Ability

//əˈbɪl.ə.ti// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    Suitableness. countable, obsolete, uncountable
  2. 2
    the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment wordnet
  3. 3
    The quality or state of being able; capacity to do or of doing something; having the necessary power. uncountable

    "This phone has the ability to have its software upgraded wirelessly."

  4. 4
    possession of the qualities (especially mental qualities) required to do something or get something done wordnet
  5. 5
    The legal wherewithal to act. countable, uncountable

    "The ability to shift profits to low-tax countries by locating intellectual property in them, which is then licensed to related businesses in high-tax countries, is often assumed to be the preserve of high-tech companies."

Show 4 more definitions
  1. 6
    Physical power. countable, uncountable
  2. 7
    Financial ability. archaic, countable, uncountable
  3. 8
    A unique power of the mind; a faculty. uncountable
  4. 9
    A skill or competence in doing; mental power; talent; aptitude. countable

    "a mixed-ability class"

Etymology

First attested in the 1300s. From Middle English abilite (“suitability, aptitude, ability”), from Old French ableté, from Latin habilitās (“aptness, ability”), from habilis (“apt, fit, skillful, able”); equivalent to able + -ity.

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