usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

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

When netbooks arrived a couple of years ago, they were so tiny, only spider monkeys would find them usable. But as they've inched up in size and usability, their sales have taken off.

—David Pogue

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

The lock supports automatic locking and unlocking, enhancing usability, while its sleek aesthetic adds a modern touch to any door. —Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 10 July 2024

The upscale-luxury brand always strives to ensure both comfort and luxury are met, while confirming the usability and enjoyment is designed around the driver. —Marc D Grasso, Hartford Courant, 27 Apr. 2024

This choice was pivotal in overcoming performance and usability challenges. —Kody Boye, USA TODAY, 25 June 2024

The Edge design is a genius move from a usability point of view in cases that require the vertical mount. —PCMAG, 15 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above