Ca"pa*ble (?), a. [F. capable, LL. capabilis capacious, capable, fr. L. caper to take, contain. See Heave.]

1.

Possessing ability, qualification, or susceptibility; having capacity; of sufficient size or strength; as, a room capable of holding a large number; a castle capable of resisting a long assault.

Concious of jou and capable of pain. Prior.

2.

Possessing adequate power; qualified; able; fully competent; as, a capable instructor; a capable judge; a mind capable of nice investigations.

More capable to discourse of battles than to give them. Motley.

3.

Possessing legal power or capacity; as, a man capable of making a contract, or a will.

4.

Capacious; large; comprehensive.

[Obs.]

Shak.

Capable is usually followed by of, sometimes by an infinitive.

Syn. -- Able; competent; qualified; fitted; efficient; effective; skillful.

 

© Webster 1913.