usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce usability (audio)
: the quality or state of being usable : ease of use
Each feature is designed to enhance reliability, efficiency, and usability, ensuring dependable performance across a variety of scenarios.Lauren Carpenter
One of the other great problems of computer software is preoccupation with bells and whistles, rather than usability. Even software that began as easily usable can evolve over time into something so burdened with complicated (and trivial) features that it is a challenge to figure out how to do the simplest thing.Thomas Sowell

Examples of usability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The model blends high performance with long-distance usability. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 24 Apr. 2026 The usability of energy derived from matter-antimatter annihilation. Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026 Beyond capability, the Tacoma stands out for its usability. ABC News, 22 Apr. 2026 Instead, its focus is placed on cutting efficiency, everyday carry comfort, and long-term usability. New Atlas, 19 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for usability

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of usability was in 1842

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Cite this Entry

“Usability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/usability. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

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