eligible

UK: /ˈel.ɪ.dʒə.bəl/ | US: /ˈel.ə.dʒə.bəl/

Definition

  1. adj. meeting the necessary requirements to be chosen or allowed to do something

  2. adj. desirable or suitable as a partner (e.g., in marriage)

Structure
e <out>lig <choose>ible <able>e <out>lig <choose>ible <able>
Etymology

Derived from Latin "eligibilis," meaning "fit to be chosen," the word evolved through Old French "eligible" before entering English in the 14th century. The core idea of "choosing out" (selecting) persists in its modern sense of meeting criteria for selection.

Examples

  1. Only citizens over 18 are eligible to vote.

  2. She became eligible for the scholarship after maintaining a 3.5 GPA.

  3. The job requires candidates to be eligible for security clearance.

  4. He’s considered one of the most eligible bachelors in the city.

  5. The coupon is only eligible for use on full-priced items.