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Definition of tenable

tenable

/ˈtɛn.ə.bəl/
ten · a · ble
Adverb:tenably
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tenable Lexical Profile

tenable Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Able to be maintained, justified, or defended against criticism or objection (typically used of an argument, theory, or position).

Example

"Once the new experimental data emerged, the scientist's original hypothesis was no longer tenable."

2

Capable of being held, occupied, or enjoyed for a specified period of time or under specific conditions (typically used of an academic fellowship, scholarship, or official post).

Example

"The university offers a prestigious research fellowship tenable for three years to recent doctoral graduates."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for tenable

• Nearby Words

temptress
tempura
ten
tenable
tenably
tenacious
tenaciously

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Middle French tenable ('capable of being held'), derived from the verb tenir ('to hold'), which ultimately traces back to the Latin tenere ('to hold, keep, or maintain').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tenable. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tenable
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