enabler

noun

en·​abler i-ˈnā-b(ə-)lər 

: one that enables another to achieve an end

especially : one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (such as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by making it possible to avoid the consequences of such behavior

Did you know?

Enabling: The Behavior of an Enabler

Enable has a number of senses, most of which are some variant on allowing someone (or something, such as enabling cookies on a computer) to do something. In the past several decades, enable has also started to take on a new associated sense in the field of addiction studies, where enabling is viewed as giving misguided support to a person with some substance-abuse issue. A person who facilitates the self-destructive behavior of another is referred to as an enabler.

Examples of enabler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the key enablers of a successful technology strategy is using tech and data to drive value and deliver measurable results for the enterprise. —Bill Pappas, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

Advertisement As Emanuel pointed out on CNN, the biggest losers from Trump’s strikes are America’s enemies abroad, chiefly China and Russia, who were the biggest supporters and enablers of Iran’s drive towards a nuclear weapon. —Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 22 June 2025

Panelists also unpacked tech enablers for transparency and strengthening reporting capabilities to equip investors and regulators with the data needed to overcome longstanding barriers to circularity. —Carved, Sourcing Journal, 18 June 2025

This is followed by the identification of an enabler, followed by the broadcasting of terrorist intent. —Donald J. Mihalek, ABC News, 3 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for enabler

• abler
• glabellar
• stabler

Medical Definition

enabler

noun

en·​abler i-ˈnā-b(ə-)lər 

: one that enables another to achieve an end

especially : one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by helping that individual avoid the consequences of such behavior