accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: the quality or state of being accountable

… the CFO has ultimate accountability for maintaining the books and records of the company …

—The Motley Fool

especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions

demanded more accountability from public officials

The … quarterback did take accountability for his play … recognizing it as an error that can't happen at this level.

—Steven Corder

Examples of accountability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Sacramento Bee published three notable local stories on July 7, 2026, spanning law enforcement, education and public safety accountability. — Ruyuan Li. Summary Produced By Ai Assistance, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026

Gavin and Kenny say that Amanda is not taking any accountability for her part in the relationship falling apart. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 8 July 2026

The language stays focused on precision, accountability, and trial-ready advocacy. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 7 July 2026

By bringing tax evasion within the anti-money laundering framework, the UAE has changed the nature of accountability. — Alia Noor, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above