ability

The story

1. Latin · derived fromhabilitās“aptness, ability”
2. Old French · derived fromableté
3. Middle English · inherited fromabilite“suitability, aptitude, ability”
4. English todayability

First attested in the 1300s. From Middle English abilite (“suitability, aptitude, ability”), from Old French ableté, from Latin habilitās (“aptness, ability”), from habilis (“apt, fit, skillful, able”); equivalent to able + -ity.

First known use, by meaning

• Attested from around (1350 to 1470) until the late 17ᵗʰ century. Suitableness.
• First attested from around (1350 to 1470). The quality or state of being able; capacity to do or of doing something; having the necessary power.
• First attested in the mid 17ᵗʰ century. The legal wherewithal to act.
• First attested from around (1350 to 1470). Physical power.
• First attested in the early 16ᵗʰ century. Financial ability.
• First attested in the late 16ᵗʰ century. A unique power of the mind; a faculty.
• First attested in the early 17ᵗʰ century. A skill or competence in doing; mental power; talent; aptitude.