transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈper-ən(t)-sē 

plural transparencies

1

: the quality or state of being transparent

2

: something transparent

especially : a picture (as on film) viewed by light shining through it or by projection

Synonyms of transparency

• clarity
• brightness

Examples of transparency in a Sentence

the transparency of a piece of glass

the transparency of their motives

He says that there needs to be more transparency in the way the government operates.

The professor used transparencies and an overhead projector during her lectures.

Recent Examples on the Web

The demands for transparency, and the online speculation arising from this trickle of information, put McIlrath in a bind. — Cristian Farias, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2026

For example, integrating transparency and building explainability into systems and products by implementing ISO standards. — Punit Bhatia, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Late Wednesday, a group of business associations, including the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Haiti, issued a joint press release calling for more effort in organization and stressed the need for credibility and transparency in the process. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 25 Sep. 2026

Schwartz — who also emphasized that the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is safe and effective — has said her priority is rebuilding trust through accuracy and transparency. — Jess Steier, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for transparency

• inerrancy

Kids Definition

transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈpar-ən-sē 

-ˈper-

plural transparencies

1

: the quality or state of being transparent

2

: a picture or design on glass, thin cloth, paper, or film viewed by shining light through it or by projection

Medical Definition

transparency

noun

trans·​par·​en·​cy tran(t)s-ˈpar-ən-sē 

plural transparencies

: the quality or state of being transparent