01 n. The power of receiving or containing; extent of room or space; passive power; -- used in reference to physical things.
pl.
Capacities ((-tĭz))
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2.
The power of receiving and holding ideas, knowledge, etc.; the comprehensiveness of the mind; the receptive faculty; capability of understanding or feeling.“Capacity is now properly limited to these [the mere passive operations of the mind]; its primary signification, which is literally room for, as well as its employment, favors this; although it can not be denied that there are examples of its usage in an active sense.” — Sir W. Hamilton.
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3.
Ability; power pertaining to, or resulting from, the possession of strength, wealth, or talent; possibility of being or of doing.“The capacity of blessing the people.” — Alex. Hamilton.“A cause with such capacities endued.” — Blackmore.
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4.
Outward condition or circumstances; occupation; profession; character; position; as, to work in the capacity of a mason or a carpenter.
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5.
Legal or moral qualification, as of age, residence, character, etc., necessary for certain purposes, as for holding office, for marrying, for making contracts, wills, etc.; legal power or right; competency.(Law)
Phrases & compounds
Capacity for heat —
the power of absorbing heat. Substances differ in the amount of heat requisite to raise them a given number of thermometric degrees, and this difference is the measure of, or depends upon, what is called their capacity for heat. See Specific heat, under Heat.
Syn.
Ability; faculty; talent; capability; skill; efficiency; cleverness. See Ability.