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

• 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

If Okoro plays his cards right (and follows through on his jumper), Josh Giddey should improve his reliability as an offensive player. —Joel Lorenzi, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025

That said, for now, these systems are limited in range and reliability. —Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 6 Oct. 2025

Her hallmark is her reliability, not her explosiveness. —Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 5 Oct. 2025

Evaluate whether new connections demonstrate consistency, reliability and commitment. —Sarah Maokosy, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2025

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