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 In recent years, questions surrounding Kansas City’s lack of control and what that means for police accountability, have surfaced during the 2020 protests for racial justice, after last year’s record breaking number of homicides and most recently, in the wake of the Chiefs rally shooting. Katie Moore, Kansas City Star, 25 Mar. 2024 The aim: transparency and accountability so AI can be trusted. Nick Rockel, Fortune, 22 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for accountability 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'accountability.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near accountability

Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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