Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun, plural a·bil·i·ties.
- power or capacity to do or act physically, mentally, legally, morally, financially, etc.
- competence in an activity or occupation because of one’s skill, training, or other qualification: the ability to sing well.
- abilities, talents; special skills or aptitudes: Composing music is beyond his abilities.
noun plural -ties
- possession of the qualities required to do something; necessary skill, competence, or powerthe ability to cope with a problem
- considerable proficiency; natural capabilitya man of ability
- (plural) special talents
late 14c., from Old French ableté “expert at handling (something),” from Latin habilitatem (nominative habilitas) “aptitude,” noun of quality from habilis “easy to manage, handy” (see able). One case where a Latin silent -h- failed to make a return in English (despite efforts of 16c.-17c. scholars); see H.