Sociable, a.
Etymology: [F., fr. L. sociabilis, fr. sociare to associate, fr. socius a companion. See Social.]
1. Capable of being, or fit to be, united in one body or company; associable. [R.] They are sociable parts united into one body. Hooker.
2. Inclined to, or adapted for, society; ready to unite with others; fond of companions; social. Society is no comfort to one not sociable. Shak. What can be uneasy to this sociable creature than the dry, pensive retirements of solitude South.
3. Ready to converse; inclined to talk with others; not taciturn or reserved.
4. Affording opportunites for conversation; characterized by much conversation; as, a sociable party.
2 more senses
5. No longer hostile; friendly. [Obs.] Beau & Fl. Sociable bird, or Sociable weaver (Zoöl.), a weaver bird which builds composite nests. See Republican, n., 3. (b).
Syn. -- Social; companionable; conversible; friendly; familiar; communicative; accessible.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Sociable, n.
1. A gathering of people for social purposes; an informal party or reception; as, a church sociable. [Colloq. U. S.]
2. A carriage having two double seats facing each other, and a box for the driver. Miss Edgeworth.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for sociable; he lists it under friendly.
Where he writes about it:
Companionable and sociable refer to manner and behavior, cordial and genial express genuine kindliness of heart. — from friendly
We speak of a cordial greeting, a favorable reception, a neighborly call, a sociable visitor, an amicable settlement, a kind interest, a friendly regard, a hearty welcome. — from friendly