accountability

noun

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

: the quality or state of being accountable

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

public officials lacking accountability

Examples of accountability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Typically, there is unchecked power, a lack of transparency, and frequently no accountability. —Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025

At what point will environmental stewardship and accountability to the public good outweigh the short-term convenience of summer scheduling? —Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2025

Now, the case has been settled for $3.5 million after Donald’s mother sought accountability and justice, according to the family’s attorneys. —Miami Herald, 16 May 2025

But their happy romance is soon demolished when Jenny reappears in their lives, thrusting all three into a difficult and messy journey towards true accountability and adulthood. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 16 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above