capability
Americannoun
plural
capabilities-
the quality of being capable; capacity; ability.
His capability was unquestionable.
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the ability to undergo or be affected by a given treatment or action.
the capability of glass in resisting heat.
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Usually capabilities. qualities, abilities, features, etc., that can be used or developed; potential.
Though dilapidated, the house has great capabilities.
noun
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the quality of being capable; ability
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the quality of being susceptible to the use or treatment indicated
the capability of a metal to be fused
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(usually plural) a characteristic that may be developed; potential aptitude
Other Word Forms
- overcapability noun
- supercapability noun
Etymology
Origin of capability
First recorded in 1580–90; from Middle French capabilité, from Late Latin capābili(s) capable + -ty 2
Compare meaning
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
There are concerns that AI will replace software capabilities, leading to a selloff in that sector.
From Barron's
None of Iran’s air fleet has stealth capability, making the jets easy targets.
Lacking a significant air force, Iran heavily relies on its long- and short-range missiles, and drone firing capabilities to strike its adversaries.
Then awkward questions started arising about how far Britain’s current military capabilities extend—or, more to the point, don’t.
The task will become much tougher if Iran mines the strait, because the Navy has sharply cut its minesweeping capabilities and would likely require help from the U.K. or other allies.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
