capability

[key-puh-bil-i-tee]

noun

plural

capabilities 

1. the quality of being capable; capacity; ability.

   His capability was unquestionable.

2. the ability to undergo or be affected by a given treatment or action.

   the capability of glass in resisting heat.

3. Usually capabilities. qualities, abilities, features, etc., that can be used or developed; potential.

   Though dilapidated, the house has great capabilities.

capability

/ ˌkeɪpəˈbɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality of being capable; ability

2. the quality of being susceptible to the use or treatment indicated

   the capability of a metal to be fused

3. (usually plural) a characteristic that may be developed; potential aptitude

Other Word Forms

• overcapability noun
• supercapability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of capability¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Middle French capabilité, from Late Latin capābili(s) capable + -ty ²

Example Sentences

Some users praised its capabilities for quick tasks but said they still rely on bigger AI models like those from Anthropic for more complex work.

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Targa said the acquisition will grow its sour gas treating capabilities and expand its gathering and processing footprint in the Permian Basin.

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Adobe, the industry veteran, has new AI capabilities throughout its suite of photo-editing software, as well as a fully AI-enabled app called Firefly.

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How do you think the Russian improvements in drone capabilities will influence the course of the war?

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“We are investing heavily in engineering capabilities, and especially here in China, because China is the most innovative hub for driving the automotive industry,” Oliver Blume, chief executive of Volkswagen, said at the import expo.

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Related Words

• capacity 
• competence 
• effectiveness 
• efficiency 
• facility 
• means 
• potential 
• power 
• proficiency 
• skill 
• wherewithal