Definition

The quality of being reliable and trustworthy, so that others can count on you or something to perform as expected.

Example

Her dependability makes her a great team member.

Conversation

I've always valued dependability in my friends.

Same here! It's so important to know you can count on someone.

Right? It makes relationships so much stronger.

Absolutely! Trust and dependability go hand in hand.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dependability → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down from or away) and "pendere" (meaning to hang). The word "dependability" refers to the quality of being able to rely on something or someone, as if it hangs down from a source of trust.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'hangs down' ('pendere') from a source of trust ('de-') — that's why dependability means you can rely on it.

Visually Confused Words