incapable Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective (followed by `of') lacking capacity or ability
- incapable of carrying a tune
- he is incapable of understanding the matter
- incapable of doing the work
adjective satellite not being susceptible to or admitting of something (usually followed by `of')
- incapable of solution
adjective (followed by `of') not having the temperament or inclination for
- simply incapable of lying
adjective satellite not meeting requirements
incompetent; unequal to.
- unequal to the demands put upon him

Pref. in- not + capable: cf. F. incapable, L. incapabilis incomprehensible.

Wanting in ability or qualification for the purpose or end in view; not large enough to contain or hold; deficient in physical strength, mental or moral power, etc.; not capable; as, incapable of holding a certain quantity of liquid; incapable of endurance, of comprehension, of perseverance, of reform, etc.
Not capable of being brought to do or perform, because morally strong or well disposed; -- used with reference to some evil; as, incapable of wrong, dishonesty, or falsehood.
Not in a state to receive; not receptive; not susceptible; not able to admit; as, incapable of pain, or pleasure; incapable of stain or injury.
(Law) Unqualified or disqualified, in a legal sense; as, a man under thirty-five years of age is incapable of holding the office of president of the United States; a person convicted on impeachment is thereby made incapable of holding an office of profit or honor under the government.
(Mil.) As a term of disgrace, sometimes annexed to a sentence when an officer has been cashiered and rendered incapable of serving his country. ✍ Incapable is often used elliptically.
Is not your father grown incapable of reasonable affairs? Shak.
Syn. -- Incompetent; unfit; unable; insufficient; inadequate; deficient; disqualified. See Incompetent.