Emily Dickinson Lexicon

COULD, v. [pron. COOD. The past tense of can, according to our customary arrangement in grammar; but in reality a distinct word, can having no past tense. Could, we receive through the Celtic dialects, W. gallu, Corn. gally, Arm. gallout, to be able; Heb. יכל, Ch. כהל, Eth. ከህለ to be able, to prevail; L. calleo. Either of the Oriental verbs may be the root, and all may be of one family. In the past tense, could signifies, was able, had power.]

1. Had sufficient strength or physical power. A sick man could not lift his hand. Isaac was old and could not see. Alexander could easily conquer the effeminate Asiatics.
2. Had adequate means or instruments. The men could defray their own expenses. The country was exhausted and could not support the war.
3. Had adequate moral power. We heard the story, but could not believe it. The intemperate man could have restrained his appetite for strong drink. He could have refrained, if he would. My mind could not be toward this people. – Jer. xv.
4. Had power or capacity by the laws of its nature. The tree could not grow for want of water.
5. Had competent legal power; had right, or had the requisite qualifications. Formerly, a citizen could not vote for officers of government without the possession of some property. A B could not be elected to the office of senator, for want of estate. B C, not being of the blood of the ancestor, could not inherit his estate.
6. Had sufficient capacity. The world could not contain the books. – John xxi.
7. Was capable or susceptible, by its nature or constitution, as of some change. He found a substance that could not be fused.
8. Had adequate strength or fortitude; as, he could not endure the pain or the reproach.
9. Had motives sufficient to overcome objections. He thought at first he could not comply with the request; but after consideration he determined to comply.
10. Had competent knowledge or skill. He could solve the most difficult problems.