adjective
navigable
NAV-ih-guh-bul/ˈnævɪɡəbl/
Able to be traveled through, especially by boat.
The river stays navigable even when the water level drops.
Etymology
The sailing verb and capability ending originally described water that afforded passage to ships. The selected sense applies that same idea of usable passage to routes traveled by other vehicles.
In context
There should be a good supply of laborers. It should be well watered, and near it should be a flourishing town or the sea or a navigable stream or a good and much traveled road.
More examples
- Only small boats can use the narrow but navigable channel.
- The mountain pass is navigable again after crews clear the snow.
- Clear menus make the website navigable for first-time visitors.
Forms
navigable
navigate verb — To plan or direct a route.
navigability noun — The quality of allowing travel through.
Similar words
- passable
- Emphasizes that a route allows passage despite possible obstacles.
- traversable
- Applies broadly to surfaces or terrain that can be crossed.