v.tr. 1 (prec. by can or be able to; often foll. by to + infin.) a have enough money, means, time, etc., for; be able to spare (can afford $50; could not afford a holiday; can we afford to buy a new television?). b be in a position to do something (esp. without risk of adverse consequences) (can't afford to let him think so). 2 yield a supply of. 3 provide (affords a view of the sea). affordable adj. affordability n.
[ ME f. OE geforthian promote (as Y-, FORTH), assim. to words in AF- ]