reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being reliable

2

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials

Synonyms of reliability

• reliableness
• dependability
• responsibility
• trustworthiness
• solidity

Examples of reliability in a Sentence

we never had reason to question the reliability of the park rangers in the event of an emergency

Recent Examples on the Web

The company prides itself on its low prices, reliability, convenience, and superior customer service, according to its website. —Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 7 Jan. 2026

Taiwan’s shifting calculus Consider what Venezuela reveals about the reliability of powerful patrons. —Bobby Ghosh, Time, 6 Jan. 2026

Your reliability can create much more lasting trust than flaky grand speeches. —Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026

Onur Duru, general manager of Bossa, added that strongest players were those who remained flexible in sourcing, protected lead-time reliability, and invested in capabilities that reduce uncertainty—especially in materials, logistics, and compliance. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reliability

• acceptability
• accessibility
• adaptability
• admissibility
• advisability
• affordability
• allowability
• amenability
• amiability
• appealability
• applicability
• availability

Kids Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the quality or state of being reliable

Medical Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials