Dictionary.com
definitions
  • synonyms

presentable

[pri-zen-tuh-buhl]
adjective
  1. that may be presented.
  2. suitable or socially acceptable in appearance, dress, manners, etc., as for being introduced into society: a presentable young man.
  3. of sufficiently good, clothed, or clean appearance; fit to be seen: Are you presentable now?
Show More

Origin of presentable

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at present2, -able
Related formspre·sent·a·bil·i·ty, pre·sent·a·ble·ness, nounpre·sent·a·bly, adverbnon·pre·sent·a·bil·i·ty, nounnon·pre·sent·a·ble, adjectivenon·pre·sent·a·ble·ness, nounnon·pre·sent·a·bly, adverbun·pre·sent·a·ble, adjectiveun·pre·sent·a·ble·ness, nounun·pre·sent·a·bly, adverb

Synonyms

2. becoming, proper, acceptable.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for presentability

Historical Examples

  • A sudden doubt had just assailed me as to my presentability.

    Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 152, June 20, 1917

    Various

  • Her ladyship softened down Miss Tyrawley's groom to presentability.

    When Ghost Meets Ghost

    William Frend De Morgan

  • From this observed fact we drew conclusions unfavourable to the general appearance and presentability of the Mytilenian ladies.

British Dictionary definitions for presentability

presentable

adjective
  1. fit to be presented or introduced to other people
  2. fit to be displayed or offered
Show More
Derived Formspresentableness or presentability, nounpresentably, adverb
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for presentability

presentable

adj.

mid-15c., of a benefice; also, in law, "liable to formal charge of wrongdoing," from present (v.) + -able. Meaning "suitable in appearance" is from 1800. Related: Presentably.

Show More
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper