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

This gap between intent and reality is becoming increasingly visible, where trust must be earned through transparency. —Alyn Franklin, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

But Kennedy’s social media outburst on Wednesday further made clear that Kennedy is not committed to transparency as health secretary. —Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 12 June 2026

There has to be transparency, and here there was none. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 June 2026

The world of Disclosure Day is one of total transparency, non-stop surveillance, endless pursuit. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 12 June 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