rationality

noun

ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌra-shə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
plural rationalities
1
: the quality or state of being rational
2
: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason : reasonableness
3
: a rational opinion, belief, or practice
usually used in plural

Examples of rationality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These categories were not simply seen as opposite, but in a hierarchy with objectivity and rationality as superior. Sara Giordano, The Conversation, 4 Sep. 2025 Everyone who dies in the film—and everyone does die, including Santino (Marcelo Michinaux), Pedro’s young son—does so because Pedro and Jimi act without thought given to consequences, much less to rationality. Andy Crump, Time, 9 Aug. 2025 The rationality of purchasing the Pollio billboard has been debated since the Kentucky Center for Investigative Reporting first reported the MacKenzie Scott donation largely paid for it. Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 31 July 2025 The most worrisome aspect is that striking first in these circumstances has an element of rationality. Robert A. Pape, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for rationality

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rationality was in 1628

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Cite this Entry

“Rationality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rationality. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

rationality

noun
ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
: the quality or state of being rational

Medical Definition

rationality

noun
ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
plural rationalities
1
: the quality or state of being rational
2
: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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