visibility

noun

vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌvi-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce visibility (audio)
plural visibilities
Synonyms of visibilitynext
1
: the quality or state of being visible
2
a
: the degree of clearness (as of the atmosphere or ocean)
specifically : the greatest distance through the atmosphere toward the horizon at which prominent objects can be identified with the naked eye
b
: capability of being readily noticed
c
: capability of affording an unobstructed view
3
: a measure of the ability of radiant energy to evoke visual sensation

Examples of visibility in a Sentence

The extra publicity helped to increase the company's visibility.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Through its clear imagery, operators can navigate safely and assess fire scenes even with poor visibility. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 4 Mar. 2026 In cases of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, activate your hazard lights and seek a safe spot, like a nearby business parking lot, to pull over and stop. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 3 Mar. 2026 That one second of low-visibility ended with Schultz hitting the ground hard and fracturing his knee. Jonathan Carone, Parents, 3 Mar. 2026 Sidestep a brief cluster, and watch your visibility and ambitions skyrocket. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 3 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for visibility

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of visibility was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Visibility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/visibility. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

visibility

noun
vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌviz-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce visibility (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being visible
2
: the degree of clearness of the atmosphere

Medical Definition

visibility

noun
vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌviz-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce visibility (audio)
plural visibilities
1
: the quality or state of being visible
2
: a measure of the ability of radiant energy to evoke visual sensation

More from Merriam-Webster on visibility

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