rationality

noun

ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌra-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

plural rationalities

1

: the quality or state of being rational

2

: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason : reasonableness

3

: a rational opinion, belief, or practice

—usually used in plural

Examples of rationality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The real question is whether rationality and humanity are as incompatible as current corporate behavior suggests. —Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

To inject greater rationality into the system, a unified budget took effect in 1969. —Steve H. Hanke, Fortune, 14 May 2026

If ecological environments structure our expression and capacity for action, media environments similarly undermine human forms of agency and rationality. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 May 2026

Tap into desire—or, better yet, anxiety—and rationality goes out the window. —Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rationality

• hyper-rationality

Rhymes for rationality

• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• generality
• geniality
• hospitality

Kids Definition

rationality

noun

ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē 

: the quality or state of being rational

Medical Definition

rationality

noun

ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē 

plural rationalities

1

: the quality or state of being rational

2

: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason