readable

American  

[ree-duh-buhl] / ˈri də bəl /

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.

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readable British  

/ ˈriːdəbəl /

adjective

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

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

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Other Word Forms

• readability noun
• readably adverb

Etymology

Origin of readable

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

Example Sentences

The Berkshire proxy is readable and runs less than 20 pages and compares with the 100-plus page tomes that most big companies issue.

From Barron's

Using a special encryption code, the operatives could translate the numerals into a readable message.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr. Scott charts a course through these momentous events with great skill, producing a book that is readable and accessible but bedded in authoritative scholarship.

From The Wall Street Journal

Nick Hornby, chair of the judges, said the book was "both readable and intelligent" and "will be read and thought about for years to come".

From BBC

Despite these shortcomings, “The Death of Trotsky” is a tremendously readable book with a haunting message: Vengeance never sleeps.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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