accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

: the quality or state of being accountable

… the CFO has ultimate accountability for maintaining the books and records of the company …

—The Motley Fool

especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions

demanded more accountability from public officials

The … quarterback did take accountability for his play … recognizing it as an error that can't happen at this level.

—Steven Corder

Examples of accountability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Advocates and city leaders say videos play a crucial role in accountability. —Wcco Staff, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026

Kepner is passionate about accountability and service journalism and encourages anyone to reach out to her to tell their story or share a tip. —Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026

Congress will continue pressing for accountability and fiscal discipline, because the cost of inaction falls on workers and employers alike. —Vince Fong, Oc Register, 8 Jan. 2026

Pair market access with accountability. —Tharo Khun, Sourcing Journal, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above