credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkre-də-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce credibility (audio)
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
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 threat drew credibility from the recent strikes on Iran. Eric Cortellessa, Time, 23 Oct. 2025 Upheaval at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has plunged Kentucky's public health infrastructure into a state of confusion and uncertainty, officials said, and some local departments are beginning to question the credibility of the agency's guidance. Connor Giffin, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 Oct. 2025 Expect their attorneys to attack the credibility of witnesses who have agreed to cooperate with the government and implicate Rozier, Billups, and Jones in exchange for receiving a pass or a lower charge. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 Oct. 2025 The real opportunity is in credibility. Preston Fore, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for credibility

Word History

Etymology

see credible

First Known Use

circa 1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of credibility was circa 1572

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Credibility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/credibility. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

credibility

noun
cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkred-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce credibility (audio)
1
: the quality or power of inspiring belief
a story without much credibility
2
: capacity for belief
an excuse beyond credibility

More from Merriam-Webster on credibility

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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