A deponent verb meaning to be able, to have power or capacity, to be capable of. It is the verbal root of dynamis (G1411, power, miracle) and the English words 'dynamic' and 'dynamite.' It encompasses both physical ability and moral/spiritual capacity — what one can do versus what one cannot do.
The NT consistently contrasts human inability with divine ability. 'With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible (dynata)' (Matt 19:26). Jesus declares, 'Without me ye can do nothing' (John 15:5), while Paul proclaims, 'I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me' (Phil 4:13). The inability is not merely practical but spiritual: 'No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him' (John 6:44). Paul's theology of human depravity rests on this: the flesh 'cannot please God' (Rom 8:8). Yet God is 'able (dynamenos) to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think' (Eph 3:20). The interplay between human impotence and divine omnipotence drives the believer to radical dependence on grace.