enable

American  

[en-ey-buhl] / ɛnˈeɪ bəl /

verb (used with object)

enabled, enabling

1. to make able; give power, means, competence, or ability to: Students with vision impairments are enabled in the classroom with magnifiers and screen reader software.

   This document will enable him to pass through the enemy lines unmolested.

   Students with vision impairments are enabled in the classroom with magnifiers and screen reader software.

   Synonyms:

   permit, allow, qualify, empower

2. to make possible or easy.

   Aeronautics enables us to overcome great distances.

3. to encourage or support (the bad or dysfunctional behavior) of (someone): You enable drug users when you shield them from the consequences of their actions.

   The university enabled years of abuse by ignoring complaints against the coach.

   You enable drug users when you shield them from the consequences of their actions.

4. Digital Technology.

   1. to make (a device, system, or feature) active or functional; turn on.

      The automatic snapshot feature is enabled by default.

   2. to equip for an extended, peripheral, or premium use.

      to enable your laptop for wireless internet access.

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enable British  

/ ɪnˈeɪbəl /

verb

1. to provide (someone) with adequate power, means, opportunity, or authority (to do something)

2. to make possible

3. to put (a digital electronic circuit element) into an operative condition by supplying a suitable input pulse

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Other Word Forms

• enablement noun
• enabler noun
• preenable verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of enable

First recorded in 1375–1425; Middle English; en- ¹, able

Example Sentences

This area of research is considered crucial because it could enable topological quantum computing, a proposed approach to storing and processing quantum information in a way that naturally resists errors.

From Science Daily

The research reflects more than six years of work supported by a National Institutes of Health New Innovator Award, which enabled the team to investigate how chronic pain develops and persists.

From Science Daily

This creates multiple overlapping light patterns within the same space, which significantly increases storage capacity and enables faster data transfer.

From Science Daily

The engines enable faster missile launches as they require little preparation before ignition.

From Barron's

The system "enables underwriters to respond quickly and proportionately to areas of increased risk", said Roberts, who sits on the committee that updates the list.

From Barron's

Related Words

• empower
• facilitate
• implement
• permit
• set up