eligibility
UK: ˌelɪdʒəˈbɪləti | US: ˌelɪdʒəˈbɪləti
n. the state of having the right to do or obtain something through fulfillment of necessary conditions
n. the quality of being suitable or worthy to be chosen
The word "eligibility" traces back to the Latin verb eligere ("to choose, select"), combining e- (out) + legere (to pick, gather). Over time, eligere evolved into Old French eligible (worthy of choice), which entered English in the 14th century. The suffix -ibility (from Latin -ibilitas) was added to form the noun, emphasizing the capacity to meet selection criteria. The morpheme elig- preserves the core idea of "choice," while -ibility abstracts it into a measurable quality.
Her academic achievements confirmed her eligibility for the scholarship.
The committee reviewed the candidates' eligibility based on experience.
Age restrictions determine eligibility for certain government benefits.
The athlete’s doping violation voided his eligibility to compete.
Verify your eligibility before applying for the program.