English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
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verb

enable

ih-NAY-buhl
verb
1
To give someone the ability, means, or authority to do something.
"The grant enabled her to finish her degree."
"This setting enables users to share files across the network."
2
To activate a function, especially on a device or system.
"Enable location services to use the map feature."

How to Use Enable

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo make something possible, or to switch a feature on.

Common pairings
enable someone to enable a feature enable access

Word Forms

enabled past tense, enables singular

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The grant _____ her to finish her degree.

Etymology

From Middle English enablen, from en- + able.

Rhymes for enable

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial