noun
ability
uh-BIHL-uh-tee
noun
1
The capacity or power to do something.
"She has the ability to learn languages quickly."
"The surgery restored his ability to walk."
2
A particular skill or talent.
"His musical ability was obvious from a young age."
How to Use Ability
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing able to do something — either the general power to do it, or a specific talent for it.
Common pairings
natural ability
the ability to
proven ability
Word Forms
abilities plural
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She has the _____ to learn languages quickly.
Etymology
From Old French ableté, from Latin habilitas ("aptness, capability"), related to habilis ("able, fit") — the same root as "able."