accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce accountability (audio)
: the quality or state of being accountable
especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions
public officials lacking accountability

Examples of accountability 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.
In addition to trying to hold lawmakers accountable for passing a state spending plan on time, Duggan outlined his plan to give school administrators a runway to improve student outcomes before firing them, which would give school districts some say in their accountability measures. Clara Hendrickson, Freep.com, 29 Oct. 2025 Instead, Newsom’s decision sends a troubling message about the state’s commitment to safety and accountability. Mohammed Jawad, Mercury News, 28 Oct. 2025 The Mobility Board recommended reforms and improved policies on transparency and accountability, while the grand jury recommended the districts be taken over by neighborhood planning groups. David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Oct. 2025 The mayor’s office announced the speech weeks after the release of 2025 MCAS and state accountability data for the district. Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for accountability

Word History

Etymology

accountable + -ity

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of accountability was in 1750

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

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!