able-bodied, a.
(ˌeɪb(ə)lˈbɒdɪd)
[f. able body (see quot. from Shakes. under able a. 5) + -ed2.]
Having an able body, i.e. one free from physical disability, and capable of the physical exertions required of it; in bodily health; robust.
| a 1622 Massinger etc. Old Laws v. i, A lusty woman, able-bodied, and well-blooded cheeks. 1690 Petty Polit. Arith. v. 90 In New-England, there are vast numbers of able bodyed Englishmen, employed chiefly in Husbandry. 1800 Colquhoun Comm. & Pol. Thames xvi. 511 Encouraged able-bodied Landsmen to betake themselves to the Sea-service. 1851 Spencer Soc. Statics xxviii. §6 The Poor-Law Commissioners were to have eradicated able-bodied pauperism. 1876 Fawcett Polit. Econ. i. iv. 29 Able-bodied labourers were in full employment. |