First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
could
verbal auxiliary \kəd, ˈku̇d\
Definition of COULD
past of can
—used in auxiliary function in the past <we found we could go>, in the past conditional <we said we would go if we could>, and as an alternative to can suggesting less force or certainty or as a polite form in the present <if you could come we would be pleased>
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of COULD
Middle English couthe, coude, from Old English cūthe; akin to Old High German konda could
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
COULD Defined for Kids
could
\kəd, ˈku̇d\
Definition of COULD for Kids
past of can
1
—used as a helping verb in the past <Her daughter could read at the age of five.>
2
—used as a polite form instead of can <Could you help me?>
3
—used to say something is possible <You could win.> <You could have been hurt.>
Learn More About COULD
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up could? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).