inability

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Lack of the ability to do something; incapability.

   […] tho' theſe ſeem'd to be very unfit Inſtruments for compaſſing of that great Deſign for which they were then employ'd, becauſe of their Inability and Uncapacity in performing the Work ſo very great and important; […]

2. 2
   noun

   lacking the power to perform

3. 3
   noun

   lack of ability (especially mental ability) to do something

4. 4
   noun

   Lack of the option to do something; powerlessness.

Etymology

From earlier inhability (“disqualification for office”), equivalent to in- + ability. Compare Middle French inhabilité, Medieval Latin inhabilitās.