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.
As the extent of Zimbardo’s manipulation came to light, the 1971 study lost credibility in academic circles, even as its pop-cultural legend kept growing. — Judy Berman, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 Justice Steyn also found Clarke to lack credibility as a witness. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 21 Oct. 2026 But there are indirect consequences of the Many Worlds hypothesis that could lend the idea credibility. — Philipp Strasberg, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 Le Pen's plans involve billions in new spending and lack credibility, according to Bloomberg Economics. — Arkansas Online, 20 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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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