enable

en-a-ble · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To make someone or something able to do something; to give the means or ability.

  2. 2.

    To make something possible or allow it to happen.

  3. 3.

    (Computing) To activate or make a feature or function available.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    enable someone to do something — to make it possible for someone to do something
  • •
    enabling technology — technology that makes other advancements possible
  • •
    enable/disable — common paired options in software settings

Related words

Antonyms: block, disable, hinder, prevent
See also: allow, disable, empower, facilitate
Synonyms: allow, empower, facilitate, permit

Etymology

From en- ("make, put in") + able ("capable"). First recorded in English in the 15th century, originally meaning "to make legally capable."