incapable

/ɪnˈkeɪpəbl̩/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: incapables

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Not capable (of doing something); unable.

Adjective

Examples

A pint glass is incapable of holding more than a pint of liquid.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Not in a state to receive; not receptive; not susceptible; not able to admit.

Adjective

Examples

incapable of pain, or pleasure; incapable of stain or injury

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

One who is morally or mentally weak or inefficient; an imbecile; a simpleton.

NounRegister: dated

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “incapable” mean?

Not capable (of doing something); unable.

Is “incapable” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.