inability

noun

in·​abil·​i·​ty ˌi-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce inability (audio)
: lack of sufficient power, resources, or capacity
his inability to do math

Examples of inability in a Sentence

She has shown an inability to concentrate. the inability of the government to cope with the problem
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet her efforts keep getting undermined by Sorrentino’s own inability to get beyond the beauty himself. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 7 Feb. 2025 Despite his injury issues, and inability to practice for months at a time, Armstead has been a pillar of the granite on an offensive line, which already needs to be rebuilt at every spot but right tackle and center. Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 6 Feb. 2025 No one age eligible will be turned away due to the inability to give a donation. Kay Johnson, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025 Although many in the organization are incredibly frustrated with Bryant’s lack of production and inability to stay on the field, the team continues to express hope — at least publicly. Patrick Saunders, The Denver Post, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for inability 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English inhabilite disqualification, from Medieval Latin inhabilitas, from Latin in- + habilitas ability

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inability was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near inability

Cite this Entry

“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inability. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

inability

noun
in·​abil·​i·​ty ˌin-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce inability (audio)
: lack of ability, power, or means
his inability to carry a tune

More from Merriam-Webster on inability

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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