incapable

in·ca·pa·ble

adj \(ˌ)in-ˈkā-pə-bəl\

Definition of INCAPABLE

1

: lacking capacity, ability, or qualification for the purpose or end in view: as a archaic : not able to take in, hold, or keep b archaic : not receptive c : not being in a state or of a kind to admit : insusceptible d : not able or fit for the doing or performance : incompetent

2

: lacking legal qualification or power (as by reason of mental incompetence) : disqualified

— in·ca·pa·bil·i·ty \-ˌkā-pə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— in·ca·pa·ble·ness \-ˈkā-pə-bəl-nəs\ noun

— in·ca·pa·bly \-blē\ adverb

Examples of INCAPABLE

1. <hired a supremely incapable assistant who only made a mess of things>

Origin of INCAPABLE

Middle French, from in- + capable capable

First Known Use: 1594

Related to INCAPABLE

Synonyms: inapt, incompetent, inept, inexpert, unable, unfit, unfitted, unqualified, unskilled, unskillful

Antonyms: able, capable, competent, expert, fit, qualified, skilled, skillful, ultracompetent

Related Words: ineffective, ineffectual, inefficient; amateurish, callow, dilettantish, green, inexperienced, raw, unprofessional; unequipped, unprepared, untrained; useless, worthless; disqualified, ineligible; wanting

Near Antonyms: prepared, ready, trained; overqualified; accomplished, ace, adept, consummate, crack, experienced, practiced (also practised), seasoned, veteran, virtuoso; all-around (also all-round), protean, versatile

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