inability

noun

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

Synonyms of inability

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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.
Some patients taking GLP-1s describe sudden shivering fits, an inability to warm up or the reverse — abrupt flushing and heat. — Jesse Pines, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Since the start of last offseason, the Atlanta Braves have been haunted by their inability to land a high-quality starting pitcher. — Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 The inability to imagine a middle-class life—especially for the Subaru Socialists right on the cusp of comfort—seems to be what’s behind a slate of recent electoral victories for the Democratic Socialists of America. — Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 4 Aug. 2026 What made this notable was Ukraine's inability to defend itself. — Tom Bowman, NPR, 4 Aug. 2026 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

1500, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inability was in 1500

Rhymes for inability

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Browse Nearby Words

in a big way
inability
in a bind
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Cite this Entry

“Inability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inability. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of inability for Spanish Speakers

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