readable

[ree-duh-buhl]

adjective

1. easy or interesting to read.

2. capable of being read; legible.

   readable handwriting.

3. pertaining to letter mail with addresses and zip codes capable of being read by optical scanning devices.

readable

/ ˈriːdəbəl /

adjective

1. (of handwriting, etc) able to be read or deciphered; legible

2. (of style of writing) interesting, easy, or pleasant to read

Other Word Forms

• readably adverb
• readability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of readable¹

First recorded in 1560–70; read ¹ + -able

Example Sentences

Early reviews suggest an uneven result: some critics call it “very readable,” while others dismiss it as “a frustrating slog” that leaves both supporters and critics wanting more.

From Salon

The show’s thorough, wonderfully readable catalog refers to the power of “funerary magnificence” in the kingdom’s social structure.

From Los Angeles Times

“Jewish Roots” has what a book with a shaky premise needs to still be readable: a voice that never really gets dry.

From Los Angeles Times

The University of Washington historian charted the spectacular rise and all-swallowing influence of the tech industry and its titans in her excellent, highly readable 2019 work, “The Code: Silicon Valley and the Remaking of America.”

From Los Angeles Times

The only reason the alleged testament to "merit" is even readable is because someone other than Trump wrote it.

From Salon

Related Words

• absorbing 
• amusing 
• appealing 
• eloquent 
• engaging 
• engrossing 
• enjoyable 
• entertaining 
• enthralling www.thesaurus.com
• fascinating 
• gripping 
• interesting 
• rewarding 
• satisfying www.thesaurus.com
• well-written 
• worthwhile