serviceable

[ sur-vuh-suh-buhl ]

adjective

1. capable of or being of service; useful.

   Synonyms: functional, usable, effective

2. wearing well; durable:

   serviceable cloth.

3. capable of being used, worn, cleaned, repaired, etc., easily.

serviceable

/ ˈsɜːvɪsəbəl /

adjective

1. capable of or ready for service; usable
2. capable of giving good service; durable
3. archaic.
   diligent in service

Derived Forms

• ˌserviceaˈbility, noun
• ˈserviceably, adverb

Other Words From

• service·a·bili·ty service·a·ble·ness noun
• service·a·bly adverb
• nonserv·ice·a·bili·ty noun
• non·service·a·ble adjective
• non·service·a·ble·ness noun
• non·service·a·bly adverb
• un·service·a·ble adjective
• un·service·a·ble·ness noun
• un·service·a·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of serviceable¹

1300–50; service ¹ + -able; replacing Middle English servisable < Middle French

Example Sentences

In the Hollywood Reporter, Leslie Felperin wrote that while the film "lacks the absurdist wit and decidedly dark edge that elevated the first two Paddington movies", it was "serviceable enough given its limitations".

From BBC

Jenkins’ direction is serviceable at best and the style is drab rather than nostalgically worn.

From Los Angeles Times

“Color good,” I reassure myself as I apply a coat of Backdrop’s reddish-purple Lobby Scene to a perfectly serviceable Ikea cabinet, boring bad.

From Los Angeles Times

He easily could be a serviceable player and have a great experience in many places.

From Los Angeles Times

But now, if Murphy lives up to expectations, the D-line can be serviceable if not downright formidable.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• dependable
• usable