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.
Is there clarity around decision making and accountability? Leyda Lazo, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025 And make no mistake, this Administration will do everything in its power to hobble our nation’s schools—by cutting funding, supports, programming, and accountability measures that are critical to ensure every student has equal access and can live up to their potential. Andrea Campbell, Time, 6 Aug. 2025 The purpose of the safety and accountability measures is to avoid any potential attacks from any assailant. Lauren Brensel, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2025 It’s outlasted alternative voices in the region that once covered breaking news (LA Weekly), has been the default option for City Hall coverage and accountability reporting and sourcing on law enforcement and still publishes a suite of local community papers spanning from Burbank to Laguna Beach. Erik Hayden, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 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 19 Aug. 2025.

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