dependable

adjective

de·​pend·​able di-ˈpen-də-bəl How to pronounce dependable (audio)
Synonyms of dependable
: capable of being trusted or depended on : reliable
a dependable source of income
a dependable assistant
needs a dependable car for work
dependability
di-ˌpen-də-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce dependable (audio)
noun
dependableness noun
dependably
di-ˈpen-də-blē How to pronounce dependable (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of dependable

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Examples of dependable in a Sentence

seeking a dependable person to look after their summer home in the off-season
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.
Vandersloot is more dependable than many veterans at her age, but the guard is nevertheless in the final stage of her longevity. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026 Clinkunbroomer was described by colleagues as a smart and dependable guy often assigned to teach others how to do various jobs at work. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026 But even the most dependable pieces eventually become too stained, scratched, or mismatched for food storage. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2026 Our business depends upon a consistent and dependable supply of theatrical films. — Cory Jacobson, HollywoodReporter, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependable

Word History

Etymology

depend + -able

First Known Use

1735, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dependable was in 1735

Rhymes for dependable

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Browse Nearby Words

dependability
dependable
dependableness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dependable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependable. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dependable

adjective
de·​pend·​able di-ˈpen-də-bəl How to pronounce dependable (audio)
: capable of being depended on : trustworthy, reliable
a dependable car
dependability
-ˌpen-də-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce dependable (audio)
noun
dependably
-ˈpen-də-blē How to pronounce dependable (audio)
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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