accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce accountability (audio)
: the quality or state of being accountable
especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions
public officials lacking accountability

Examples of accountability in a Sentence

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.
And build a culture where truth, growth and accountability thrive, even in the most disruptive times. Jennifer C. Wolfe, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 May 2025 Justice: Fairness, balance, and accountability are your themes this month, Cancer. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025 But this time, the jury rejected those tactics and delivered a powerful message: accountability matters, and New Yorkers deserve better. Sophia Compton, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025 While short-term financial effects may be limited, such movements seek to encourage broader discussions on economic fairness and corporate accountability. Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for accountability

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of accountability was in 1750

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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