Could
(verb)
- Past tense of 'can'.
- Used to indicate possibility or permission.
- Used in making polite requests.
Origin:
Old english cūðe, past tense of cunnan (see can).
Examples:
- I could swim when I was six.
- We could go to the park if you want.
- Could I borrow a pencil, please?
- Could you pass me the salt?
- Could you open the window, please?