reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being reliable

2

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials

Synonyms of reliability

• reliableness
• dependability
• responsibility
• trustworthiness
• solidity

Examples of reliability in a Sentence

we never had reason to question the reliability of the park rangers in the event of an emergency

Recent Examples on the Web

The company continues to test its systems in real-world conditions, but incidents like this raise questions about reliability. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2026

So how does that change the way grid operators think about reliability and risk? —Dana Taylor, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026

Solidifying a workable routine helps everyone know what to expect, and your reliability repairs stress that has lingered in the background. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2026

As Luxury SUVs are easily the category of choice for Grasso’s Garage, in order to top the charts, brands must have good pricing, great comfort, easy-to-use technology and reliability topping the list of demands. —Marc D Grasso, Hartford Courant, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reliability

• acceptability
• accessibility
• adaptability
• admissibility
• advisability
• affordability
• allowability
• amenability
• amiability
• appealability
• applicability
• availability

Kids Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the quality or state of being reliable

Medical Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials