habile

adj.
Generally able or adroit; handy.

[Middle English habil, from Old French habile, from Latin habilis, from habēre, to handle.]

(HAB-il)

adjective
Having general ability; skillful.

Etymology
From Latin habilis (able), from habere (to have or to hold). Ultimately from the Indo-European root ghabh- (to give or to receive) that is also the source of give, gift, able, habit, prohibit, due, and duty.]

Usage
"Such rude and prolonged treatment would almost certainly result in the unwelcome appearance of an unappetizing assortment of molds that present a formidable challenge to even the most habile of our local winemakers." — Jeff Popick; Mini-heat Wave Aids Near-complete Winegrape Harvest; St. Helena Star (California); Oct 25, 2007.

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IN BRIEF: adj. - Adroit or skillful.

Tutor's tip: This word was used in the 2006 Scripps National Spelling Bee finals.