rationality

noun

ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌra-shə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
plural rationalities
1
: the quality or state of being rational
2
: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason : reasonableness
3
: a rational opinion, belief, or practice
usually used in plural

Examples of rationality 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.
Modern men were influenced by reason and rationality, rather than a deity. Alison Habens, JSTOR Daily, 31 Oct. 2024 Though Young has a clear, lovely voice and an appealing matter-of-factness about her, neither Lloyd nor the show seems very interested in Betty’s B-plot, maybe because its girl-next-door sweetness and rationality feel wan beside the play’s central house of horrors. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 20 Oct. 2024 Its roots stretch all the way back to the ancient Greeks, who emphasized the role of human rationality in figuring out how to lead a good and flourishing life. Sigal Samuel, Vox, 20 Oct. 2024 What rationality means for Kuminga’s case, though, is the pursuit of a deal that makes sense for both sides — and what makes sense for Kuminga isn’t necessarily the same as what makes sense for the Warriors. Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rationality 

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rationality was in 1628

Dictionary Entries Near rationality

Cite this Entry

“Rationality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rationality. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

rationality

noun
ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
: the quality or state of being rational

Medical Definition

rationality

noun
ra·​tio·​nal·​i·​ty ˌrash-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce rationality (audio)
plural rationalities
1
: the quality or state of being rational
2
: the quality or state of being agreeable to reason
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!