SINCE 1828
could
auxiliary verb
\ kəd, ˈku̇d
\
\
Definition of could
past tense of can
—used in auxiliary function in the past We found we could go. , in the past conditional We said we would go if we could. , and as an alternative to can suggesting less force or certainty or as a polite form in the present If you could come, we would be pleased.
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More Definitions for could
could
\ kəd
, ˈku̇d\
, ˈku̇d\
Kids Definition of could
past tense of can
1
—used as a helping verb in the past Her daughter could read at the age of five.
2
—used as a polite form instead of can Could you help me?
3
—used to say something is possible You could win.You could have been hurt.
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