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.
What gives the Wachtell Lipton investigation credibility is not only its careful presentation of facts but also the way the context and sources are weighed and considered. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 6 Sep. 2026 This helps ensure that the deliberations and discussions reflect a diversity of legal traditions, perspectives and approaches, further strengthening the fairness, independence, credibility of the process and access to a fair trial. — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 As a result, business development priorities are shifting from simply generating more outreach and information to creating immediate value, building credibility and earning trust throughout a longer buying journey. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026 However, there is considerably more room today for contemporary luxury, independent labels, and direct-to-consumer brands to establish credibility in handbags. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 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 7 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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