1. Capable of allowing vessels or vehicles to pass, and thereby usable for travel or commerce (the channel was barely navigable because it was so narrow). [Cases: Navigable Waters
1. C.J.S. Navigable Waters § 1.]
navigable in fact, adj. Naturally usable for travel or commerce in the present condition. • A stream is navigable in fact if, in its natural and ordinary state, it can be used for travel or commerce. For admiralty jurisdiction, the water must be capable of being used as a route in interstate or international commerce in customary modes of travel. [Cases: Navigable Waters
1. C.J.S. Navigable Waters § 1.]
2. Capable of being steered (navigable aircraft).
— Also termed boatable. See NAVIGABLE WATER.
