reliable

[ri-lahy-uh-buhl]

adjective

1. that may be relied on or trusted; dependable in achievement, accuracy, honesty, etc..

   reliable information.

   Synonyms: consistent, authentic, trusty
   Antonyms: deceitful, questionable, undependable

reliable

/ rɪˈlaɪəbəl /

adjective

1. able to be trusted; predictable or dependable

Other Word Forms

• reliability noun
• reliableness noun
• reliably adverb
• nonreliable adjective
• nonreliableness noun
• nonreliably adverb
• quasi-reliable adjective
• quasi-reliably adverb
• ultrareliable adjective
• ultrareliablely adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of reliable¹

First recorded in 1560–70; rely + -able

Synonym Study

Reliable, infallible, trustworthy apply to persons, objects, ideas, or information that can be depended upon with confident certainty. Reliable suggests consistent dependability of judgment, character, performance, or result: a reliable formula, judge, car, meteorologist. Infallible suggests the complete absence of error, breakdown, or poor performance: an infallible test, system, marksman. Trustworthy emphasizes the steady and honest dependability which encourages one's confidence, belief, or trust: trustworthy and accurate reports.

Example Sentences

The festival has become a reliable launching pad for films in North America, particularly those looking to enter the Oscar race.

From Los Angeles Times

It is now inconsequential to me whether I ever end up in a romantic relationship again; I have a reliable life partner, and it’s myself.

From Los Angeles Times

The UK's Department of Transport says it is "determined to support the HGV sector to make the switch to electric vehicles become more reliable and affordable".

From BBC

“Last Chance Grade and Highway 101 isn’t just a road — it’s a lifeline. And every truckload of goods, every visitor to the redwoods, and every emergency response depends on reliable access through this critical corridor.”

From Los Angeles Times

She said she did not find some of his evidence "to be either credible or reliable".

From BBC

Related Words

• decent 
• decisive 
• dependable 
• good 
• honest 
• positive 
• predictable 
• respectable 
• safe 
• sincere 
• solid 
• stable 
• steady 
• strong 
• true