transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈper-ən(t)-sē 

plural transparencies

1

: the quality or state of being transparent

2

: something transparent

especially : a picture (as on film) viewed by light shining through it or by projection

Synonyms of transparency

• clarity
• brightness

Examples of transparency in a Sentence

the transparency of a piece of glass

the transparency of their motives

He says that there needs to be more transparency in the way the government operates.

The professor used transparencies and an overhead projector during her lectures.

Recent Examples on the Web

It should be built on transparency, inclusion and direct investment into the people who have remained committed to this city despite decades of being pushed aside. —Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2026

What started as a niche philosophy embraced by a handful of chefs has become a defining force in modern dining, pushing freshness, seasonality and transparency to the center of the plate. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2026

These will help to demonstrate a commitment to ensuring complete transparency and accountability, and to keeping detailed records for all vendor evaluations and decisions. —Meily Perez, Miami Herald, 22 May 2026

New Yorkers are already paying the price, and for communities of color — already navigating higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic illness — the lack of transparency has a profound impact. —Al Sharpton, New York Daily News, 22 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for transparency

• inerrancy

Kids Definition

transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈpar-ən-sē 

-ˈper-

plural transparencies

1

: the quality or state of being transparent

2

: a picture or design on glass, thin cloth, paper, or film viewed by shining light through it or by projection

Medical Definition

transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈpar-ən-sē 

plural transparencies

: the quality or state of being transparent