Sufficient

Pronunciation

• IPA: /səˈfɪʃənt/

Origin

From Old French sufisanz, soficient, from Latin sufficiēns, present participle of sufficiō.

Full definition of sufficient

Adjective

1. Equal to the end proposed; adequate to wants; enough; ample; competent; as,We have provision sufficient for the familyThis army is sufficient to defend the country.There is not sufficient access to the internet in the some small country villages.
2. Possessing adequate talents or accomplishments; of competent power or ability; qualified; fit.A two-week training course is sufficient to get a job in the coach-driving profession.
3. (archaic) Capable of meeting obligations; responsible.
• 1668, Samuel Pepys, December 23 1668...to take the best ways we can, to make it known to the Duke of York; for, till Sir J. Minnes be removed, and a sufficient man brought into W. Pen's place, when he is gone, it is impossible for this Office ever to support itself.
4. self-sufficient; self-satisfied; content.

Derived terms

• self-sufficient
• sufficiency
• sufficiently

Related terms

• suffice

Determiner

1. The smallest amount needed.Sufficient of us are against this idea that we should stop now.