Capacity

Definition

Capacity is a noun that refers to the maximum amount that something can contain, the ability or power to perform, and in legal terms, the qualification to engage in certain acts or roles. It can describe both physical limits and personal abilities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈpæsɪti/
• Respelling: kuh-PASS-ih-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈpæsɪti/
• Respelling: kuh-PASS-ih-tee

Etymology

The word "capacity" originates from the Latin "capacitas," meaning "capable of holding much," derived from "capax" (capable) and "capere" (to take or hold). The term evolved to represent both physical limits and intellectual abilities.

Derivatives

• Capacitate (verb)
• Capacious (adjective)
• Capability (noun)
• Incapacity (noun)
• Capacitor (noun, technical)

Synonyms

• Volume
• Ability
• Potential

Antonyms

• Inability
• Incompetence
• Limit

Usage

The term "capacity" is widely used to indicate limits, abilities, and potentials in various contexts. For example, "The auditorium reached full capacity," or "She has the capacity to handle complex tasks."

Related Terms

• Volume: The amount of space that a substance or object occupies.
• Limit: The point or level beyond which something does not or may not extend or pass.
• Capability: The power or ability to do something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The maximum amount something can contain: Refers to the physical limit of how much a container or space can hold.
  • Example: "The bottle has a capacity of 500 milliliters."
• The ability or power to do, experience, or understand something: Describes the intellectual or physical ability to perform a task or role.
  • Example: "She has the mental capacity to grasp complex concepts."
• A position or role: Used to describe someone’s role or function in a specific context.
  • Example: "He served in his capacity as a team leader."