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.
Williams is concerned that a message telling people to rely on technology for healthcare engagement would undermine the credibility of community health workers and health institutions in general. — Lisa Fitzpatrick, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 The Ministry of External Affairs in India quickly rejected the commission’s remarks, calling the body biased and lacking in credibility. — ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026 Many economists and market players argue that the real reason long-term yields rose is that traders are increasingly worried that America’s burgeoning debt is undermining its financial credibility. — Laurent Belsie, Christian Science Monitor, 28 Aug. 2026 Lacking credibility While the grand jury found Hay’s testimony transparent and credible, the testimony of Jeff Aaron, the lawyer advising the Hope Florida Foundation’s board, was not, according to the report. — Sofia Saric, Miami Herald, 27 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 1 Sep. 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

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