Facility

Definition

Facility is a noun referring to a place, resource, or service designed to enable a specific function or purpose. It can also describe ease in performing a task or skill.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fəˈsɪləti/
• Respelling: fuh-SIL-uh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fəˈsɪlɪti/
• Respelling: fuh-SIL-ih-tee

Etymology

The word "facility" originates from the Latin term "facilitas," meaning "ease" or "readiness," derived from "facilis," meaning "easy." It entered Middle English via Old French as "facilité," maintaining its meaning of ease or capability.

Derivatives

• Facilitate (verb)
• Facilitation (noun)
• Facilitator (noun)
• Facilities (plural noun)
• Facile (adjective)

Synonyms

• Service
• Amenity
• Resource

Antonyms

• Obstacle
• Hindrance
• Difficulty

Usage

The term "facility" is commonly used in contexts involving buildings, resources, or systems designed for specific purposes, as well as in reference to skills or ease of performance. For example, "The research facility houses state-of-the-art equipment," or "She has a natural facility for languages."

Related Terms

• Amenity: A feature or service that enhances comfort or convenience.
• Infrastructure: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for operation.
• Capability: The ability or capacity to achieve something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place or resource designed for a specific purpose: Refers to buildings, spaces, or equipment used to perform particular functions.
  • Example: "The hospital's new facility includes advanced surgical units."
• The ease or proficiency in performing a task: Describes the skill or natural ability to do something effortlessly.
  • Example: "He demonstrated a remarkable facility with numbers."
• An establishment offering services or conveniences: Often used in plural form to refer to accommodations or features.
  • Example: "The hotel offers excellent facilities for conferences and events."