affords; afforded; affording
1
: to be able to pay for (something)
We were too poor to afford a doctor.
He'll be able to afford a house next year.
Don't spend more than you can afford.
They couldn't afford new coats for the children.
—often followed by to + verbThey couldn't afford to buy new coats for the children.
Don't spend more than you can afford to (spend).
2
: to be able to do (something) without having problems or being seriously harmed
We can afford waiting a while longer.
—usually followed by to + verbWe can afford to wait a while longer.
—usually used in negative constructionsShe's already too thin. She can't afford to lose any more weight. = She can ill afford to lose any more weight.
3
formal
: to supply or provide (something needed or wanted) to someone
All of the rooms afford views of the lake.
He was afforded the opportunity to work for a judge.
Cite this Entry
“Afford.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/afford. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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