could

auxiliary verb

kəd,

ˈku̇d 

past tense of can

—used in auxiliary function in the past

We found we could go.

, in the past conditional

We said we would go if we could.

, and as an alternative to can suggesting less force or certainty or as a polite form in the present

If you could come, we would be pleased.

Examples of could in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Thousands of women could receive additional benefits if the Legislature passes the bill. —James Brooks, Anchorage Daily News, 5 Feb. 2023

The Natural History Museum took possession of the animal's remains, prompting swift condemnation by tribal leaders who feared P-22′s body could be taxidermized and put on display. —Stefanie Dazio, ajc, 5 Feb. 2023

Domestically, President Joe Biden hosted Speaker Kevin McCarthy at the White House to discuss a possible deal on the debt ceiling; experts warn delaying an increase in the debt limit could spell economic disaster. —Phillip M. Bailey, USA TODAY, 5 Feb. 2023

That could put the property on track to surpass numbers for 2022, its best year since opening in 2017. —Blane Bachelor, CNN, 4 Feb. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English couthe, coude, from Old English cūthe; akin to Old High German konda could

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

could

kəd 

(ˈ)ku̇d

past of can

—used as a helping verb in the past

we found we could go

we said we would go if we could

and as a polite or less forceful alternative to can

could you do this for me