/ əˈbɪləti; NAmE / noun ( pl. -ies )
1.
[ sing. ] ability to do sth the fact that sb/sth is able to do sth :
The system has the ability to run more than one program at the same time.
Everyone has the right to good medical care regardless of their ability to pay.
A gentle form of exercise will increase your ability to relax.
OPP inability
2.
[ C , U ] a level of skill or intelligence :
Almost everyone has some musical ability.
He was a man of extraordinary abilities.
students of mixed abilities
A woman of her ability will easily find a job.
I try to do my job to the best of my ability (= as well as I can) .
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French ablete , from Latin habilitas , from habilis able.