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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Origin and Etymology of could
Middle English couthe, coude, from Old English cūthe; akin to Old High German konda could
First Known Use: 13th century
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Spanish Central: Translation of could Nglish: Translation of could for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of could for Arabic speakers
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