Definition and meaning of English word "capital"
capital
/ˈkæpɪtəl/
Meaning
NounMoney and wealth: the means to acquire or produce goods and services, especially in a non-barter system.
How to use
The noun 'capital' can refer to wealth, assets, or the city that serves as the seat of government. In economics, 'capital' often refers to the financial resources used to create goods and services. A common learner mistake is confusing 'capital' with 'capitol', which refers specifically to a legislative building.
🇬🇧 English
capital
Example
The capital of France is Paris.
The capital of the United States is Washington D.C.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- capital investment— an investment in a business or project
- capital punishment— the death penalty
- venture capital— investment in a new business or project
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #426 in English
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common English words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "capital" mean?▼
The English word "capital" means "capital" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "capital"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "capital" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "capital"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Used to describe the most important city in a country." (which translates as "capital").
More Places & Buildings words
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →