accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce accountability (audio)
: 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
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.
Other recommendations dealt largely with updating police oversight and officer accountability policies. Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 22 June 2025 These board members are unfit to serve and must be recalled to restore accountability and public confidence. U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 June 2025 Legislators also passed several laws, signed by Polis, to add oversight and accountability for the processing of the exams. Nick Coltrain, Denver Post, 21 June 2025 And there is no accountability for what appears to be Israeli overreach. Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for accountability

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of accountability was in 1750

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Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

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