What does "enabling" mean?

1. (making something possible) the act of giving someone the tools, rights, or ability to do something. 2. (providing ability) describing something that allows a process or activity to happen. 3. (the act of making possible) the process of making an action or a system work.

How do you use "enabling"?

Often followed by an object and a 'to' infinitive.

enabling

v. · adj. · n.

US //ɛˈneɪbəɫɪŋ// UK //ɛnˈeɪblɪŋ// en·abling

1 making something possible (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the act of giving someone the tools, rights, or ability to do something.

the present participle of 'enable', describing the process of providing the means or opportunity to achieve a goal.

Example

The new software is enabling our team to work much faster than before.

Example

By providing micro-loans to local entrepreneurs, the charity is enabling sustainable economic growth within the rural community.

Usage

Often followed by an object and a 'to' infinitive.
- preventing
- hindering
2 providing ability (adj.)
C1 Advanced Academic

describing something that allows a process or activity to happen.

functioning as an attributive adjective to describe a factor, technology, or environment that facilitates a specific outcome.

Example

The government passed an enabling law to help the project start quickly.

Example

Cloud computing serves as an enabling technology that allows small businesses to compete with global corporations on a technical level.
- empowering
- facilitative
- restrictive
3 the act of making possible (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

the process of making an action or a system work.

the gerundial use of the word, referring to the abstract act or instance of providing capability or permission.

Example

The enabling of these new features required a complete system update.

Example

The successful enabling of the treaty depended on the cooperation of all regional stakeholders during the final negotiations.
- facilitation
- empowerment
- prevention

Last updated June 20, 2026