credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkre-də-ˈbi-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or power of inspiring belief

an account lacking in credibility

2

: capacity for belief

Her account exceeds credibility.

Examples of credibility in a Sentence

The new evidence lends credibility to their theory.

The scandal undermined her credibility as an honest politician.

In this instance, the lawyer's job is to make the jury doubt the witness's credibility.

Recent Examples on the Web

Businesses can establish trust more quickly by collaborating with organizations, influencers or brands that already have credibility within the new demographic. —Adam Povlitz, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025

By crying wolf at everything, all credibility is lost. —Nicolee Ambrose, Baltimore Sun, 17 Mar. 2025

But deterrence isn’t just a question of the number of missiles; demonstrating the operational credibility of Europe’s nuclear forces is also essential. —Joseph Ataman, CNN, 16 Mar. 2025

Unfortunately, these critics are gaining credibility with some segments of the public and within the political establishment. —Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see credible

First Known Use

circa 1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing credibility

• credibility gap
• lend weight/credence/credibility

Rhymes for credibility

• affability
• audibility
• bistability
• capability
• changeability
• contractility
• culpability
• disability
• disutility
• durability
• fallibility
• feasibility

Kids Definition

credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkred-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or power of inspiring belief

a story without much credibility

2

: capacity for belief

an excuse beyond credibility