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.
Dual suspension helps smooth rough trails, hydraulic disc brakes provide dependable stopping power in changing conditions, and four-inch fat tires improve traction across gravel, dirt, sand, and pavement. — New Atlas, 2 July 2026 The upshot is a more consistent and dependable critical listening experience. — Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 Even if Henderson doesn’t become an ultra-dependable short-yardage option, the Patriots still have Stevenson, and the two backs should complement each other well. — Chad Graff, New York Times, 7 July 2026 People who knew Salgado Araujo described him as dependable and kind, according to a GoFundMe for his family. — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 9 July 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
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Cite this Entry

“Dependable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependable. Accessed 9 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on dependable

Nglish: Translation of dependable for Spanish Speakers

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