possible

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   capable of happening or existing

   a breakthrough may be possible next year

2. 2
   noun

   something that can be done

   politics is the art of the possible

3. 3
   adj

   Able but not certain to happen; neither inevitable nor impossible.

   Rain tomorrow is possible, but I wouldn't bet on it.

4. 4
   adj

   Capable of being done or achieved; feasible.

   It's possible for anyone to learn to play the bagpipes.

5. 5
   adj

   Being considered, e.g. for a position.

   Jones and Smith are both possible for the opening in sales.

6. 6
   noun

   A possible choice, notably someone being considered for a position.

   Jones is a possible for the new opening in sales.

7. 7
   noun

   That which is possible for somebody.

   […] “don’t you be in any great hurry after that treasure.” “Why, sir, I do my possible, which that ain’t,” said Silver. “I can only, asking your pardon, save my life and the boy’s by seeking for that treasure; and you may lay to that.”

8. 8
   adj

   existing in possibility

Etymology

From Middle English possible, from Old French possible, from Latin possibilis (“possible”), from posse, possum (“to be able”); see power. Displaced Middle English acumendlic (“possible”), from Old English ācumendlīċ (“possible”). Compare also Old English mihtelīċ (“strong, capable, powerful, possible”), which was cognate with Old High German mahtlīh (“possible”) and Old Norse máttulígr (“mighty, possible”). Compare also Dutch mogelijk (“possible”) and German möglich (“possible”).