able-bodied

adjective

able-bod·​ied ˌā-bəl-ˈbä-dēd 

: having a sound strong body

Synonyms of able-bodied

• healthy
• well
• robust
• sturdy

Examples of able-bodied in a Sentence

every able-bodied young man in the village had been sent off to fight in the war

Recent Examples on the Web

Young and able-bodied riders avoiding eye contact with seniors or pregnant moms rather than give up their seats. — Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026

The study also focused primarily on white, able-bodied participants, so results may not translate to other groups. — Allison Forsyth, Health, 22 May 2026

The new rule will mandate that able-bodied recipients must work for 20 hours a week, volunteer or get an education in order to receive free healthcare coverage. — Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026

Gender-affirming procedures should be treated like any other elective medical procedure for able-bodied adults, funded by their own private insurance or paid out-of-pocket. — Teresa Liu, Oc Register, 6 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for able-bodied

• disembodied
• bodied
• embodied

Kids Definition

able-bodied

adjective

able-bod·​ied

ˌā-bəl-ˈbäd-ēd

: having a healthy strong body : physically fit