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

By adopting a layered approach to security, balancing usability with protection, and leveraging automation, organizations can confidently navigate the complexities of SaaS identity management. —Tony Bradley, Forbes, 10 Oct. 2024

Leaders should conduct usability testing with surgeons and other operating room staff to identify areas for improvement. —Bhushan Jayeshkumar Patel, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024

Find it on Amazon Optimize With Style: Adore This Cabinet Space Upgrade your kitchen with pull-out cabinets, optimizing storage space and usability, transforming your culinary experience. —Hannah Rice, Rolling Stone, 23 Sep. 2024

An effective discovery stage should include brainstorming, product analysis, prioritization techniques, prototyping and usability testing. —Vlad Kytainyk, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above