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

Rabble wants to set Divine apart by giving users more transparency and control over the app’s operations. — Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026

Democracy thrives in sunlight, and capitalism goes hand in hand with the transparency and tradability of public companies, where an average citizen can own a share in the future. — Cromwell Coulson, Fortune, 23 Aug. 2026

City officials say this boosts transparency, sets reasonable expectations and may deter people from repeatedly issuing the same complaint. — Point Loma-Ob Monthly, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026

Oversight quietly killed A bill meant to bring more transparency to the LRP system passed the state Senate 37-1 in May. — Julie Watts august 20, CBS News, 21 Aug. 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