[qual.i.fy] vb -fied ; -fy.ing [MF qualifier, fr. ML qualificare, fr. L qualis] vt (1533) 1 a: to reduce from a general to a particular or restricted form: modify b: to make less harsh or strict: moderate c: to alter the strength or flavor of d: to limit or modify the meaning of (as a noun)
2: to characterize by naming an attribute: describe "cannot ~ it as ... either glad or sorry --T. S. Eliot" 3 a: to fit by training, skill, or ability for a special purpose b (1): to declare competent or adequate: certify (2): to invest with legal capacity: license ~ vi 1: to be or become fit (as for an office): meet the required standard
2: to acquire legal or competent power or capacity "has just qualified as a lawyer" 3 a: to exhibit a required degree of ability in a preliminary contest "qualified for the finals" b: to shoot well enough to earn a marksmanship badge