adequacy

noun

ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈa-di-kwə-sē How to pronounce adequacy (audio)
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".

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 Right now, however, the deck is seemingly already stacked against the Giants’ efforts at consistency and adequacy on the O-line. Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 29 July 2024 Explosions and fires are a familiar sight in the area, including some that have been deadly, raising recurring questions about the adequacy of industry efforts to protect the public and the environment. Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 17 Sep. 2024 That certificate of adequacy was issued over 10 years ago but was contested from the start. Clara Migoya, The Arizona Republic, 15 Aug. 2024 Being unable to soothe a distressed baby can threaten a parent's feeling of personal adequacy concerning their parenting skills. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for adequacy 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'adequacy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

adequ(ate) + -acy

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adequacy was in 1701

Dictionary Entries Near adequacy

Cite this Entry

“Adequacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adequacy. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

adequacy

noun
ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈad-i-kwə-sē How to pronounce adequacy (audio)
plural adequacies
: the quality or state of being adequate

More from Merriam-Webster on adequacy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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