Enable

Definition

Enable is a verb that means to make something possible, to give someone or something the means to do something, or to allow a process or action to happen. It involves empowering, facilitating, or providing the conditions necessary for an activity or ability.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈneɪbəl/
• Respelling: ih-NAY-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈneɪbəl/
• Respelling: ih-NAY-buhl

Etymology

The word "enable" originates from the Middle English "enablen," which means "to make able." It is derived from the prefix "en-" meaning "make" or "put in" and the adjective "able," meaning "having the means or skills." The term has been used since the 15th century to denote granting ability or opportunity.

Derivatives

• Enabled (verb)
• Enabling (verb/adjective)
• Enabler (noun)
• Enablement (noun)
• Re-enable (verb)

Synonyms

• Empower
• Facilitate
• Authorize

Antonyms

• Disable
• Prevent
• Prohibit

Usage

The term "enable" is commonly used in contexts where someone or something is given the means or permission to act, as in "The software update will enable new features." It can also describe a role in facilitating an outcome, such as "Her support enabled him to succeed."

Related Terms

• Empower: To give authority or power to someone.
• Authorize: To grant permission for something.
• Facilitate: To make an action or process easier.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make something possible or feasible: Refers to the act of providing the means or resources necessary for something to happen.
  • Example: "The training program enables students to gain new skills."
• To give someone the means or opportunity to do something: Describes granting the ability, resources, or permission for someone to carry out an action.
  • Example: "The scholarship enabled her to attend college."
• To activate or turn on a function or feature: Often used in technological or software contexts to mean making a function active or accessible.
  • Example: "He enabled the Wi-Fi on his device."