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

Our mission is to help link the users and providers of capital with transparency, with data, with models, so that capitalism flourishes. — Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 3 July 2026

Wall Street analysts also lament his stance on forward guidance (or lack thereof), saying its reduction undoes transparency at the central bank. — Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 3 July 2026

For the Dar al Funoon, its inviting nature is communicated through form instead of literal transparency. — New Atlas, 2 July 2026

It is earned through transparency, verification, and a clear distinction between fact, inference, and speculation. — Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 2 July 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