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

Courage is good, but so is sensitivity; seriousness is good, but so is frivolity; rationality is good, but so is imagination. —Jenny Noyce, JSTOR Daily, 14 May 2025

These vehicles need to predict movement patterns, navigate road infrastructure and, ironically, understand human irrationality with perfect rationality. —Alexandre De Vigan, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025

When faced with a choice between rationality and humanity, remember: Contracts expire. —Victoria Vitchenco, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

At least in this instance, Mexican policy was a triumph of economic rationality over ideology. —Michael Lynch, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025

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