enabler

noun

en·​abler i-ˈnā-b(ə-)lər 

: one that enables another to achieve an end

especially : one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (such as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by making it possible to avoid the consequences of such behavior

Did you know?

Enabling: The Behavior of an Enabler

Enable has a number of senses, most of which are some variant on allowing someone (or something, such as enabling cookies on a computer) to do something. In the past several decades, enable has also started to take on a new associated sense in the field of addiction studies, where enabling is viewed as giving misguided support to a person with some substance-abuse issue. A person who facilitates the self-destructive behavior of another is referred to as an enabler.

Examples of enabler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

They are driven by the control over key enablers of AI development, deployment, and the implications of global access and collaboration. —Forrester, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025

The market mayhem wasn't triggered by some mysterious economic force—it's directly connected to mounting anxiety over the federal deficit and the impending fiscal fiasco that Trump and his congressional enablers are planning. —Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 May 2025

Congress should also rein in the welfare-warfare state’s great enabler by auditing then ending the Federal Reserve. —Ron Paul, Oc Register, 20 May 2025

America was gaslit by the arrogance of Joe Biden and his enablers, columnist Robin Abcarian writes. —Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for enabler

• abler
• glabellar
• stabler

Medical Definition

enabler

noun

en·​abler i-ˈnā-b(ə-)lər 

: one that enables another to achieve an end

especially : one who enables another to persist in self-destructive behavior (as substance abuse) by providing excuses or by helping that individual avoid the consequences of such behavior