viability

noun

vi·​a·​bil·​i·​ty ˌvī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce viability (audio)
: the quality or state of being viable: such as
a(1)
: the ability to live, grow, and develop
the viability of seeds under dry conditions
(2)
: the capability of a fetus to survive outside the uterus
fetal viability
b
: the ability to function adequately
The viability of lymphocytes serially harvested from stored bank blood …Biological Abstracts
c
: the ability to succeed or be sustained
This year's market turmoil had called into question the viability of the investment-banking business model …Wall Street Journal
Getting an informed start now may be essential to future growth and economic viability of the U.S. wine industry.Gordon W Murchie

Examples of viability 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.
Overlooking financial transparency Grant reviewers are looking for clear and accurate financial information to assess your business’s viability. Melissa Houston, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024 Balancing freedom and order In places like Mayport, Florida’s new amendment adds to current debates about the viability of traditional industries, like commercial fishing, which are already battered by government regulations and cheap imports. Patrik Jonsson, The Christian Science Monitor, 13 Dec. 2024 The longstanding content co-financier and co-producer is suffering cash flow issues, multiple sources told Variety, forcing the shop into bad standing with the Writers Guild of America and inspiring whispers about its viability in show business. Matt Donnelly, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024 While its viability under New York law is unclear, prosecutors suggested Merchan could take an innovative approach. Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for viability 

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of viability was in 1837

Dictionary Entries Near viability

Cite this Entry

“Viability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/viability. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

viability

noun
vi·​a·​bil·​i·​ty ˌvī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce viability (audio)
plural viabilities
: the quality or state of being viable : the ability to live, grow, and develop
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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