usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: the quality or state of being usable : ease of use

Each feature is designed to enhance reliability, efficiency, and usability, ensuring dependable performance across a variety of scenarios.

—Lauren Carpenter

One of the other great problems of computer software is preoccupation with bells and whistles, rather than usability. Even software that began as easily usable can evolve over time into something so burdened with complicated (and trivial) features that it is a challenge to figure out how to do the simplest thing.

—Thomas Sowell

Examples of usability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Andy Miller, senior vice president of AARP Innovation Labs’ AgeTech Collaborative, says thoughtful design and usability are key to developing AI technology for older adults. — Elizabeth Green, AJC.com, 24 Sep. 2026

This is to ensure conformance to an overarching body of human values, standards, cultural norms, expectations and usability considerations. — Keith Tidman, Baltimore Sun, 24 Sep. 2026

Designing a bathroom for aging in place ensures long-term usability and peace of mind. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 18 Sep. 2026

This is where many companies stop, optimizing for volume and throughput rather than usability. — Shawn Rosemarin, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for usability

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• credibility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility