could

auxiliary verb

kəd, 

ˈku̇d 

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.

Examples of could in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Thousands of women could receive additional benefits if the Legislature passes the bill. —James Brooks, Anchorage Daily News, 5 Feb. 2023

The Natural History Museum took possession of the animal's remains, prompting swift condemnation by tribal leaders who feared P-22′s body could be taxidermized and put on display. —Stefanie Dazio, ajc, 5 Feb. 2023

Domestically, President Joe Biden hosted Speaker Kevin McCarthy at the White House to discuss a possible deal on the debt ceiling; experts warn delaying an increase in the debt limit could spell economic disaster. —Phillip M. Bailey, USA TODAY, 5 Feb. 2023

That could put the property on track to surpass numbers for 2022, its best year since opening in 2017. —Blane Bachelor, CNN, 4 Feb. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English couthe, coude, from Old English cūthe; akin to Old High German konda could

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for could

• good
• should
• stood
• would
• adulthood
• babyhood
• brotherhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood

Kids Definition

could

kəd 

(ˈ)ku̇d

past of can

—used as a helping verb in the past

we found we could go

we said we would go if we could

and as a polite or less forceful alternative to can

could you do this for me