navigable

adjective

nav·​i·​ga·​ble ˈna-vi-gə-bəl 

1

a

: deep enough and wide enough to afford passage to ships

navigable waterways

b

: capable of being navigated

navigable terrain

2

: capable of being steered

navigability

ˌna-vi-gə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

navigably

ˈna-vi-gə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of navigable

• cleared
• clear
• passable
• negotiable

Examples of navigable in a Sentence

The marsh was navigable only by canoe.

this map shows which rivers are navigable and which aren't

Recent Examples on the Web

There are many important accessibility practices—including writing descriptive alt text for images, using sufficient color contrast and ensuring websites are keyboard navigable. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Or visit the 329-acre Mercer Slough Nature Park, Lake Washington’s largest remaining wetland, and its seven miles of navigable boardwalk. — Sara Harowitz, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2026

This begs the important question of what constitutes a navigable waterway. — Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 1 July 2026

That means creating an easily navigable layout, incorporating soft, inviting textures and materials, and choosing extra-comfortable furniture. — Madeline Bilis, Architectural Digest, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

navigable

adjective

nav·​i·​ga·​ble ˈnav-i-gə-bəl 

1

a

: deep and wide enough to permit passage to ships

navigable rivers

b

: capable of being navigated

navigable terrain

2

: capable of being steered

a navigable balloon

navigability

ˌnav-i-gə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

noun