Capable (?), 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.
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.
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]
&hand_; Capable is usually followed by of, sometimes by an infinitive.
Syn. -- Able; competent; qualified; fitted; efficient; effective; skillful.[1913 Webster]