usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: 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

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

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for usability

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• credibility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility