reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being reliable

2

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials

Synonyms of reliability

• reliableness
• dependability
• responsibility
• trustworthiness
• solidity

Examples of reliability in a Sentence

we never had reason to question the reliability of the park rangers in the event of an emergency

Recent Examples on the Web

Compact, sturdy, and built for the modern creator, TicNote combines old-school reliability with modern automation. —Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 15 Dec. 2025

According to reports, this radar has much higher reliability, which is why every modern fighter and bomber is moving to AESA. —Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 13 Dec. 2025

Proponents say the line is needed to improve the reliability of the Midwest's power grid and will eventually lower energy costs. —Madeline Heim, jsonline.com, 12 Dec. 2025

As generative AI rapidly seeps into criminal justice workflows, there are fresh questions about bias, reliability and due process. —Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reliability

• acceptability
• accessibility
• adaptability
• admissibility
• advisability
• affordability
• allowability
• amenability
• amiability
• appealability
• applicability
• availability

Kids Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the quality or state of being reliable

Medical Definition

reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural reliabilities

: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials