accountability

noun

ac·​count·​abil·​i·​ty ə-ˌkau̇n-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce accountability (audio)
Synonyms of accountabilitynext
: the quality or state of being accountable
… the CFO has ultimate accountability for maintaining the books and records of the company …The Motley Fool
especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions
demanded more accountability from public officials
The … quarterback did take accountability for his play … recognizing it as an error that can't happen at this level. Steven Corder

Examples of accountability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Parents and safety advocates, who for years have called for more online guardrails, say the trial is a crucial moment of accountability. Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2026 In one of those realities (the actual one most of us are living in), a growing number of people across the political spectrum are angered, terrified and disgusted by actions being taken in their names by people and agencies which seem to have little or no accountability. Brenda Looper, Arkansas Online, 11 Feb. 2026 The move aims to increase accountability for ICE and other federal agents conducting enforcement operations in California. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026 Kepner is passionate about accountability and service journalism and encourages anyone to reach out to her to tell their story or share a tip. Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 10 Feb. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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