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

The transparency of the scientific process mixed with the urgency of the crisis created a vacuum of confidence that wellness influencers have eagerly filled. — T.m. Brown, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026

One obvious challenge to transparency here comes from policies in place that could’ve prevented us from learning about the issues with Benton in the first place. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Suddenly, her parents’ cheerful transparency—their coarse jokes, their eagerness to name things that should not be named—appeared to Nidhi in a faintly embarrassing light. — Madhuri Vijay, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026

While the company aims to leverage first-party reader data for subscriptions and advertising, critics emphasize the lack of transparency and the availability of privacy-preserving technologies not publicly confirmed for use. — Sandy Carter, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 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