Capable (?), a. [F. capable, LL. capabilis capacious, capable, fr. L. caper to take, contain. See Heave.] 1. Possessing ability, qualification, or susceptibility; having capacity; of sufficient size or strength; as, a room capable of holding a large number; a castle capable of resisting a long assault.
[1913 Webster]

Concious of joy and capable of pain. Prior.
[1913 Webster]

2. Possessing adequate power; qualified; able; fully competent; as, a capable instructor; a capable judge; a mind capable of nice investigations.
[1913 Webster]

More capable to discourse of battles than to give them. Motley.
[1913 Webster]

3. Possessing legal power or capacity; as, a man capable of making a contract, or a will.
[1913 Webster]

4. Capacious; large; comprehensive. [Obs.] Shak.
[1913 Webster]

&hand_; Capable is usually followed by of, sometimes by an infinitive.

Syn. -- Able; competent; qualified; fitted; efficient; effective; skillful.
[1913 Webster]