dependable

adjective

de·​pend·​able di-ˈpen-də-bəl How to pronounce dependable (audio)
: capable of being trusted or depended on : reliable
a dependable source of income
a dependable assistant
needs a dependable car for work
dependability noun
dependableness noun
dependably adverb

Examples of dependable in a Sentence

seeking a dependable person to look after their summer home in the off-season
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 Panthers have a dependable backup in Dalton, with former University of Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker recently added to their practice squad. Joseph Person, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025 America’s farmers are among the president’s most dependable supporters. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2025 Bring one pair of perfect, dependable jeans. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025 The Acer Aspire Go 15 laptop is $300 off and nails the basics with smooth performance for work, streaming, and calls, plus a sturdy build that feels dependable every day. PC Magazine, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dependable

Word History

Etymology

see depend

First Known Use

1735, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dependable was in 1735

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dependable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependable. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

dependable

adjective
de·​pend·​able di-ˈpen-də-bəl How to pronounce dependable (audio)
: capable of being depended on : trustworthy, reliable
a dependable car
dependability noun
dependably adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on dependable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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