1. (usually followed by ‘to’) having the necessary means, skill, know-how or authority to do something
   "we were at last able to buy a car"; "able to get a grant for the project"; "able to swim"; "she was able to program her computer"
    
2. Having the skills and qualifications to do things well
   "able teachers";
   - capable
    
3. Having inherent physical or mental ability or capacity
   "Superman is able to leap tall buildings"; "able to learn"; "human beings are able to walk on two feet"
    
4. Having a strong healthy body
   "an able seaman"; "every able-bodied young man served in the army";
   - able-bodied

1. Able to be, subject to
   - -ible

Derived forms: ablest, abler

See also: ability, capable, competent, fit, power

Antonym: unable

Encyclopedia: Able, Forest