enable

[en-ey-buhl]

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.

enable

/ 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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of enable¹

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

Example Sentences

More needs to be done to “ensure that all health insurance does what it’s supposed to: enable people to get health care when it’s needed, without fear of incurring debt,” the Commonwealth Fund report concluded.

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The plot of “Heart the Lover” hinges on the sort of surprises and communication glitches that were more prevalent before smartphones enabled constant connectivity.

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He said the partnership will enable OpenAI “to accelerate progress and bring the benefits of advanced AI to everyone faster.”

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Athens’s wealth enabled a deeper division of labor and the rise of professions like philosopher, historian, sculptor, architect, playwright and actor.

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Advancements in electric ovens—particularly those from Swedish company PizzaMaster—have enabled this recent expansion.

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Related Words

• empower 
• facilitate 
• implement 
• permit 
• set up