credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkre-də-ˈbi-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or power of inspiring belief

an account lacking in credibility

2

: capacity for belief

Her account exceeds credibility.

Examples of credibility in a Sentence

The new evidence lends credibility to their theory.

The scandal undermined her credibility as an honest politician.

In this instance, the lawyer's job is to make the jury doubt the witness's credibility.

Recent Examples on the Web

By offering legal certainty, institutional-grade infrastructure, and reputational credibility, these jurisdictions are becoming the preferred environments for serious and sustainable cryptocurrency ventures. —Irina Heaver, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025

Below, the members of Rolling Stone Culture Council share the best ways brands can rebuild credibility and strengthen their image after public criticism. —Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 9 June 2025

Conversations with veterans also helped bring realism to settings such as camps, prisons, and villages, details that infused credibility into the story. —Kevin Giraud, Variety, 9 June 2025

Vladimer was referencing efforts by Cuomo’s circle of lawyers and aides to discredit the accusers, challenging their credibility including in court proceedings. —Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 7 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see credible

First Known Use

circa 1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing credibility

• credibility gap
• lend weight/credence/credibility

Rhymes for credibility

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility
• feasibility

Kids Definition

credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkred-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or power of inspiring belief

a story without much credibility

2

: capacity for belief

an excuse beyond credibility