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

Faculty leaders are demanding budget transparency and accountability. —Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

At its core, this debate is about accountability. —Shane Strum, Sun Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026

This unit will also enforce Florida’s existing foreign adversary laws — including restrictions on land ownership — and expand accountability to companies and individuals aligned with hostile regimes that threaten Floridians’ privacy, security and sovereignty. —February 17, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026

This can be a good option for investors who prefer the public accountability of a federally regulated institution. —Kelly Ernst, CBS News, 17 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above