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
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.
Some state lawmakers want more accountability for reckless drivers who kill people. Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026 The discovery of Miller’s and Haynes’ remains could bring clarity to a longstanding and controversial cold case in which multiple people are alleged to have eluded accountability or impeded justice. Jessie Christopher Smith, Oklahoman, 7 Apr. 2026 The program’s reporting included breaking news coverage as well as deeper historical context, policy analysis, institutional accountability, and real-world impact. Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026 The Texas Education Agency tapped Licata as superintendent of Fort Worth school district on March 24 as part of its takeover after a campus received five consecutive years of failing grades in the state’s annual accountability ratings. Samuel O’Neal 7, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Accountability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accountability. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster