Allowed or qualified to do or receive something because you meet the required conditions. It can also mean suitable or desirable as a partner.
From Late Latin 'eligibilis' meaning 'that may be chosen,' from 'eligere' (to choose, pick out). It entered English through French forms like 'eligible.' The meaning stayed close to the original idea of being fit to be chosen.
The word 'eligible' is about more than just ability; it’s about being officially allowed into the pool of choices. It’s a quiet reminder that many chances in life depend on rules someone else writes. The same root appears in 'election'—both are about who gets to be picked at all.
In many legal and social contexts, “eligible” historically encoded gendered exclusions—for example, eligibility to vote, own property, attend universities, or hold office was restricted to men in numerous jurisdictions. The term itself is neutral, but its use in institutional rules often reflected and enforced gender discrimination.
When discussing eligibility, be explicit about criteria and avoid assumptions tied to gender, marital status, or traditional family roles. Question and, where possible, revise legacy criteria that were built on historical gender exclusions.
Women and gender‑diverse people led many of the campaigns that expanded eligibility for voting, education, and professional roles; referencing this history can make discussions of eligibility more accurate.
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