The word "capacity" is spelled /kəˈpæsəti/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "ka-", is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/. The second syllable, "-pa-", is pronounced with the short "a" sound /æ/ and followed by the voiceless "s" sound /s/. The third syllable, "-ci-", is pronounced with the short "i" sound /ɪ/. The final syllable, "-ty", is pronounced with the long "e" sound /ti/. This spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of the word "capacity" and can help learners sound out the word correctly.
Capacity is a term that refers to the maximum amount or volume that something can hold, contain, or accommodate. It describes the extent to which a space or container can be filled, whether it is physical, mental, or functional in nature. In a physical sense, capacity often refers to the amount of space available within an object or area, such as the seating capacity of a theater or stadium. It can also represent the volume or quantity that a container can hold, like the capacity of a water tank or a storage bin.
In a mental or cognitive context, capacity defines the ability of an individual or system to comprehend, process, or retain information. This can refer to the memory capacity of a computer or the intellectual capacity of a person. It also encompasses the capability to perform tasks efficiently and effectively, taking into account the skills and resources available.
Moreover, capacity can describe the capability to carry out a particular function or fulfill a specific role. For instance, the capacity of a hospital refers to its ability to provide medical treatment and care to patients. Additionally, it can pertain to the legal power or authority of an individual or entity to act in a certain capacity, such as a person's capacity to enter into a contract.
Overall, capacity encompasses the physical, mental, or functional limits, abilities, and potentials of objects, systems, or individuals in various aspects of life.
1. The potential cubic contents of a cavity or receptacle. 2. Ability, power to do.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The power of containing; extent of room or space; the power of receiving instruction; ability; profession or occupation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "capacity" has its origins in Latin. It derived from the Latin word "capacitas", which is related to the Latin verb "capere" meaning "to take" or "to hold". In English, the word "capacity" appeared in the 15th century, primarily referred to as the ability to contain or hold something. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass a range of other related concepts, such as the ability to understand, retain information, or perform tasks.