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

Partner with respected local voices, customers or industry organizations that already have credibility. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Buck and Aikman, who spent two decades together calling games on Fox, brought instant credibility with them, and the league’s schedule makers have responded by giving ESPN many top-shelf games. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026

Harbaugh’s resume gave him instant credibility throughout the organization and in the locker room. — Dan Duggan, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

After that report, and Warsh's tough talk on inflation late last month, most economists argue that Warsh will have to hike rates or risk undermining his credibility with financial markets. — ABC News, 15 Sep. 2026

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