usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce usability (audio)
: the quality or state of being usable : ease of use
When netbooks arrived a couple of years ago, they were so tiny, only spider monkeys would find them usable. But as they've inched up in size and usability, their sales have taken off.David Pogue
One of the other great problems of computer software is preoccupation with bells and whistles, rather than usability. Even software that began as easily usable can evolve over time into something so burdened with complicated (and trivial) features that it is a challenge to figure out how to do the simplest thing.Thomas Sowell

Examples of usability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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These micro-optimizations compound over time to significantly enhance product usability. Antara Dave, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025 The current design only functions well on hairless skin, which could limit its usability. Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 29 May 2025 Best for Most People Photograph: Parker Hall Nothing Ear (a) $109 $79 Amazon $77 Nothing The Nothing Ear (a) (8/10, WIRED Recommends) serve up a sweet blend of style, sound quality, and usability at a surprisingly low price. Ryan Waniata, Wired News, 27 May 2025 Simplifying the tech stack and prioritizing usability are essential steps. Judit Sharon, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for usability

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of usability was in 1842

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Cite this Entry

“Usability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/usability. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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