Conversable

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Inclined and able to engage in friendly conversation with others
2. Disposed to talk and capable of holding a discussion in a sociable manner
3. Ready and equipped to participate in dialogue or chat with people

Etymology: "Conversable" is simply "converse" with the suffix "-able" attached. The verb "converse" (to talk together) came into English from Latin "conversari," meaning to live among or keep company with, from "convertere" and its sense of turning around with others. The suffix "-able" means "capable of being" or "fit for," so "conversable" describes someone who is capable of being talked with, or easy and pleasant to talk to. The surprise lies in how far the adjective has drifted from its ordinary-looking form. Its meaning is essentially social: a conversable person is sociable, affable, good company in a chat. It is a plain, transparent formation, and nothing more dramatic than that is needed to explain it.

Synonyms: sociable, talkative, communicative

Antonyms: taciturn, reserved, unsociable