credibility

noun

cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkre-də-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce credibility (audio)
Synonyms of credibility
1
: the quality or power of inspiring belief
an account lacking in credibility
2
: capacity for belief
Her account exceeds credibility.

Examples of credibility in a Sentence

The new evidence lends credibility to their theory. The scandal undermined her credibility as an honest politician. In this instance, the lawyer's job is to make the jury doubt the witness's credibility.
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 highlights the critical need for transparency, trust, and credibility as AI adoption becomes widespread. — Rachel Wells, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026 Moody earned credibility with his perspective and poise, his work ethic and discipline. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026 Trust, financing, developer communities, standards, commercial partnerships, and diplomatic credibility have become competitive advantages in their own right. — Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 2 Aug. 2026 The endorsements demonstrate the credibility Nixon has cultivated with fellow Democrats in Florida, even as donors flock toward Vindman. — Shauna Muckle, Miami Herald, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for credibility

Word History

Etymology

see credible

First Known Use

circa 1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of credibility was circa 1572

Phrases Containing credibility

Rhymes for credibility

See All Rhymes for credibility

Browse Nearby Words

credenza
credibility
credibility gap
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Credibility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/credibility. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

credibility

noun
cred·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌkred-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce credibility (audio)
1
: the quality or power of inspiring belief
a story without much credibility
2
: capacity for belief
an excuse beyond credibility

More from Merriam-Webster on credibility

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for credibility

Nglish: Translation of credibility for Spanish Speakers

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