1
a
: being within the limits of ability, capacity, or realization
a possible but difficult task
b
: being what may be conceived, be done, or occur according to nature, custom, or manners
the best possible care
the worst possible circumstance
2
a
: being something that may or may not occur
a possible surprise visit
b
: being something that may or may not be true or actual
possible explanation
3
: having an indicated potential
a possible housing site
Choose the Right Synonym for possible

possible, practicable, feasible mean capable of being realized.

possible implies that a thing may certainly exist or occur given the proper conditions.

a possible route up the west face of the mountain

practicable implies that something may be effected by available means or under current conditions.

a solution that is not practicable in the time available

feasible applies to what is likely to work or be useful in attaining the end desired.

commercially feasible for mass production

Examples of possible in a Sentence

Advances in medicine have made it possible for people to live longer. It is possible that she decided not to join us. We tried to spend as little money as possible. It is not physically possible to do everything you have planned in one day.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dutch’s mission is rooted in making that bond possible—for more people—by providing affordable, ongoing access to care. Sindhya Valloppillil, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025 Record high temperatures are possible on Monday in Oregon, including the cities of Portland, Eugene and Medford. Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 9 June 2025 An actor had to turn part of himself into the character in order to convince the audience, and this was only possible with knowledge. Erica Stern june 9, Literary Hub, 9 June 2025 In games that last 20 minutes or less, players compete in two teams of five (10 possible characters to choose from) in a classic game of capture the flag with several non-classical modifications. Jennifer Maas, Variety, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for possible

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin possibilis, from posse to be able, from potis, pote able + esse to be — more at potent, is

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of possible was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/possible. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

possible

adjective
1
: being something that can be done or brought about
a task possible only to skilled workers
2
: being something that may or may not occur
plan against possible dangers
3
: able or fitted to be or to become
a possible site for a camp

More from Merriam-Webster on possible

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