Synonyms of incapablenext
1
: lacking capacity, ability, or qualification for the purpose or end in view: such as
a
: not able or fit for the doing or performance : incompetent
incapable of understanding the task
b
: not being in a state or of a kind to admit : insusceptible
incapable of telling a lie
c
archaic : not able to take in, hold, or keep
d
archaic : not receptive
2
: lacking legal qualification or power (as by reason of mental incompetence) : disqualified

Examples of incapable in a Sentence

hired a supremely incapable assistant who only made a mess of things
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.
The dinosaurs’ digestive systems are incapable of breaking down vegetable matter into anything other than a painfully gassy bloat. — Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2026 Officials with a state hospital previously found Brown incapable to proceed in both state and federal cases against him in the August 2025 stabbing. — Julia Coin, Charlotte Observer, 27 Oct. 2026 Anything that's going to make a candidate seem degenerate, seem corrupt, seem incapable. — Shannon Bond, NPR, 24 Oct. 2026 Denny Freidenrich Laguna Beach Family feud As is often the case, when handed the keys to a successful business, the next generation simply is incapable of continuing its success. — Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for incapable

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from in- + capable capable

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of incapable was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Incapable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incapable. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

incapable

adjective
: not able to do something
incapable of cleaning her room thoroughly

Legal Definition

incapable

adjective
in·​ca·​pa·​ble
: lacking legal qualification or power (as by reason of mental incompetence) see also incapacity
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