adequacy

noun

ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈa-di-kwə-sē 

plural adequacies

: the quality or state of being adequate

Did you know?

When we question the adequacy of health-care coverage, or parking facilities, or school funding, we're asking if they are equal to our need. The adjective adequate means "enough" or "acceptable"—though in sentences like "His performance was adequate", it really means "no better than acceptable".

Synonyms

• acceptability
• satisfactoriness
• sufficiency

Examples of adequacy in a Sentence

the fire department sent someone to determine the adequacy of the building's evacuation plan

Recent Examples on the Web

Their ratings consider factors such as capital adequacy, liquidity, and operational risks. —True Tamplin, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

This transactional approach raises questions about its adequacy in addressing long-term security concerns for both the U.S. and its Gulf partners. 6. —Guney Yildiz, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

Courts are asked to decide about adequacy or equity in funding, which is what state constitutions enshrine. —Jeanne Allen, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025

The filing also details various financial agreements and regulatory compliance, including capital adequacy and liquidity management strategies. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

adequ(ate) + -acy

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for adequacy

• inadequacy

Kids Definition

adequacy

noun

ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈad-i-kwə-sē 

plural adequacies

: the quality or state of being adequate