English Lexicon

Ability

/əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #800 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The possession of the means or skill to do something.

    "Her ability to solve complex problems impressed everyone in the meeting."
  2. 2

    A talent or skill that someone possesses.

    "He has a natural ability for music that is evident from a young age."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'ability' originates from the Latin 'habilitas', meaning 'aptitude' or 'fitness', which evolved through Old French 'habilité' before entering Middle English. Its meaning has shifted from a general sense of 'fitness' to a more specific connotation of skill or competence in a particular area.

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