Formidabilities

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality of being formidable, inspiring fear or respect through strength or capability
2. The state of possessing exceptional power or influence that commands attention and awe
3. Characteristics that contribute to one's impressive nature or ability to confront challenges effectively

Etymology: "Formidabilities" is simply the plural of "formidability," so it names several instances or kinds of the quality of being formidable. The base noun comes from the adjective "formidable," which in English descends from Latin "formīdō," meaning fear or dread. The Latin root is also the source of "formidable," so the word has always carried the sense of something that provokes apprehension. The ending does the rest of the work. "-ability" attaches to adjectives to form nouns for a quality, so "formidable" becomes "formidability," the state of being formidable. Adding the plural lets speakers refer to distinct displays or sources of that quality, such as several impressive strengths or capabilities that each inspire respect or fear.