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

In November 2024, Councilmembers Monica Rodriguez and Bob Blumenfield introduced a motion calling for the city to explore bypassing LAHSA and contracting directly with service providers, citing concerns about fragmentation and accountability. —Teresa Liu, Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026

Private companies and individuals contract with districts and education co-ops to offer these programs, apparently with no quality standards and little transparency or accountability. —Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026

These compounding goofs demand accountability and a sober reassessment of the competence of American leadership. —Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026

There is no requirement for delay, only for accountability. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above