Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɪn.kəˈpeɪ.ʃəs/

Definitions

• Not having the capacity or ability to contain or hold a large quantity.
• Lacking in size, volume, or space to accommodate something.
• Incapable of holding or containing a large amount; limited in space or capacity.

Usage Examples

• The small room was incapacious, unable to hold all the guests at the party.
• The incapacious container could not store the entire batch of ingredients.
• Despite its incapacious design, the bag managed to carry all of her essentials.

Etymology

From the Latin "incapax" (meaning "incapable of") combined with the suffix "-ious" (indicating an adjective of quality). The word emerged in the early 17th century to describe something that lacks capacity.

Synonyms

• Limited
• Small
• Inadequate
• Cramped
• Restricted
• Deficient

Antonyms

• Capacious
• Spacious
• Vast
• Ample
• Expansive
• Generous

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In various English dialects, the pronunciation of "incapacious" may be altered slightly. For example, in some accents, the "a" sound in the second syllable might be more pronounced, while in others, it could be softer or even reduced to a schwa sound.

Historical Usage

The word "incapacious" first appeared in the early 1600s, with its primary meaning relating to something that lacked the ability to hold or contain. The word was often used in literary and philosophical texts to describe objects or people that were considered insufficient in capacity or unable to meet demands.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the idea of being "incapacious" is linked to the concept of limitations, often viewed negatively. However, some cultures might emphasize the need to work within limitations or adapt one's environment to maximize space and utility. In architectural and design contexts, the term "incapacious" is often used to describe spaces that require efficient use of limited space.

More Information

"Incapacious" is most commonly used in contexts involving the physical size or capacity of something, such as containers, rooms, or vehicles. It is rarely used in casual speech but finds its place in formal writing, particularly when describing the inability of something to hold or contain a large amount. The term is often employed in contrast with "capacious," which refers to something that is spacious and able to hold a great deal.