audit trail

noun

: a record of a sequence of events (such as actions performed by a computer) from which a history may be reconstructed

Examples of audit trail 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.
The researchers found that maintaining detailed audit trails of AI decision-making processes ensures transparency and traceability. Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 29 Jan. 2026 Fewer facilities mean cleaner audit trails, unified training programs, and a more straightforward way to demonstrate to Congress and the public that high-risk research is being conducted under the highest safety and security standards. David Gillum, STAT, 22 Jan. 2026 To create guardrails around the practice, this new law requires officers to disclose when AI is used and requires agencies to keep first drafts of reports and to maintain an audit trail that identifies who used AI. Sam Schulz, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Jan. 2026 Langley added that Flock has built some guardrails into its technology, including audit trails that show when data was accessed. Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 19 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for audit trail

Word History

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of audit trail was in 1954

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Cite this Entry

“Audit trail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/audit%20trail. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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