reliability

noun

re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce reliability (audio)
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

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
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.
This combination is vital to delivering the performance, reliability, and efficiency required at hyperscale. Steve McDowell, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 The key difference lies in the context and purpose: Creativity is appropriate for artistic tasks, while hallucinations are problematic when accuracy and reliability are required. Anna Choi, The Conversation, 21 Mar. 2025 My focus will be on removing all lead pipes, maintaining water treatment plants, and ensuring our distribution system meets the highest reliability standards. Courier-News, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025 This commitment to reliability and flexibility sets it apart, given that not all distributors can cater to last-minute orders or special customization requests. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reliability

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reliability was in 1810

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reliability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reliability. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

reliability

noun
re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce reliability (audio)
plural reliabilities
: the quality or state of being reliable

Medical Definition

reliability

noun
re·​li·​abil·​i·​ty ri-ˌlī-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce reliability (audio)
plural reliabilities
: the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials

More from Merriam-Webster on reliability

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!