a. [ F. capable, LL. capabilis capacious, capable, fr. L. caper to take, contain. See Heave. ] 1. Possessing ability, qualification, or susceptibility; having capacity; of sufficient size or strength; as, a room capable of holding a large number; a castle capable of resisting a long assault. [ 1913 Webster ]
Concious of joy and capable of pain. Prior. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Possessing adequate power; qualified; able; fully competent; as, a capable instructor; a capable judge; a mind capable of nice investigations. [ 1913 Webster ]
More capable to discourse of battles than to give them. Motley. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. Possessing legal power or capacity; as, a man capable of making a contract, or a will. [ 1913 Webster ]
4. Capacious; large; comprehensive. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
☞ Capable is usually followed by of, sometimes by an infinitive.
Syn. -- Able; competent; qualified; fitted; efficient; effective; skillful. [ 1913 Webster ]