skill

¹

[skil]

noun

1. the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do something well.

   Carpentry was one of his many skills.

   Synonyms: facility, proficiency
   Antonyms: inability

2. competent excellence in performance; expertness; dexterity.

   The dancers performed with skill.

   Synonyms: cleverness, deftness

3. a craft, trade, or job requiring manual dexterity or special training in which a person has competence and experience.

   the skill of cabinetmaking.

4. Obsolete.,  understanding; discernment.

5. Obsolete.,  reason; cause.

skill

²

[skil]

verb (used without object)

Archaic.

1. to matter.

2. to help; avail.

skill

/ skɪl /

noun

1. special ability in a task, sport, etc, esp ability acquired by training

2. something, esp a trade or technique, requiring special training or manual proficiency

3. obsolete,  understanding

Other Word Forms

• skill-less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of skill¹

First recorded in 1125–75; Middle English, from Old Norse skil “distinction, difference”; cognate with Dutch geschil “difference, quarrel”; skill ² ( def. )

Origin of skill²

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English skilien, from Old Norse skilja “to distinguish, divide,” akin to skil ( skill ¹ ( def. ) ), Old English scylian “to separate,” Gothic skilja “butcher,” Lithuanian skélti “to split”

Word History and Origins

Origin of skill¹

C12: from Old Norse skil distinction; related to Middle Low German schēle, Middle Dutch geschil difference

Example Sentences

The skill of these stylists, whose fingers ache from their intricate labor, has made it possible for them to make more prosperous lives for themselves in their adopted country.

From Los Angeles Times

A show like “People in the Dark” is a way to hone their skills from their day jobs, while also hopefully learning a few new tricks.

From Los Angeles Times

While reading itself is a learned skill, research has found that the brain structures connected to literacy begin developing right after birth and continue across the first few years of life.

From Los Angeles Times

One is the disparity in skill between the internationals and homegrown players.

From BBC

For over two decades, Burton taught literacy skills and helped instill a love for reading in children across the country.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accomplishment 
• art 
• artistry 
• clout 
• competence 
• dexterity 
• experience 
• expertise 
• finesse 
• ingenuity 
• intelligence 
• job 
• know-how 
• proficiency 
• prowess 
• quickness www.thesaurus.com
• readiness 
• savvy 
• technique