əˈbiləd.ē, -ətē, -i noun
( -es )
Etymology: Middle English abilite suitability, aptitude, ability, from Middle French habilité, from Latin habilitat-, habilitas aptness, ability, from habilis fit, apt, skillful + itat-, -itas -ity — more at able
1. : the quality or state of being able : physical, mental, or legal power to perform : competence in doing : skill
a writer's ability to interest readers
2. : natural talent or acquired proficiency especially in a particular work or activity : aptitude — usually used in plural
children whose abilities warrant higher education