Synonyms of enable

enable

verb

i-ˈnā-bəl 

1

as in to let

to make able or possible

my new glasses enable me to read the fine print

Synonyms & Similar Words

• let
• allow
• empower
• permit
• prepare
• equip
• ready
• qualify
• approve
• endorse
• fit
• habilitate
• condition
• sanction

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• prevent
• preclude
• inhibit
• prohibit
• forbid
• enjoin
• disallow

2

as in to empower

to give official or legal power to

a law that would enable the authorities to inspect food preparation areas for health code violations

Synonyms & Similar Words

• empower
• authorize
• qualify
• permit
• allow
• certify
• invest
• entitle
• license
• warrant
• charter
• vest
• accredit
• approve
• commission
• confirm
• endorse
• let
• initiate
• validate
• affirm
• sanction
• install
• OK
• inaugurate
• induct
• privilege
• clear
• credential
• swear in
• instate
• enfranchise

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• prevent
• disqualify
• exclude
• hinder
• stop
• impede
• discourage
• deny
• inhibit
• constrain
• disallow
• obstruct
• prohibit
• block
• shut out
• bar
• ban
• hold back
• forbid
• enjoin
• disenfranchise
• veto
• disfranchise
• outlaw
• disbar
• proscribe
• interdict

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of enable

Roman is also outfitted with a special instrument called a coronagraph, which will enable the telescope to observe exoplanets with unprecedented sensitivity. — Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 30 Aug. 2026

Probing cosmic mysteries During its five-year mission, the telescope will enable the discovery of billions of galaxies, thousands of exploding stars called supernovas and tens of billions of stars, according to Fox. — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026

That would, in turn, enable them to constantly search for drones, low-flying warplanes, and even cruise missiles flying in unpredictable trajectories. — Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

The Quilceda Creek vineyards are also non-grafted and own-rooted, which Golitzin believes enables each clone to express its character more directly. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 30 Aug. 2026