reliability
UK[rɪˌlaɪəˈbɪləti]US[rɪˌlaɪəˈbɪləti]
n
the quality of being able to be trusted to do what somebody wants or needs
n
the quality of being likely to be correct or true
n
the quality of working well for a long period of time without breaking or needing repair
Morpheme Breakdown
reli
abil
ity
reli
to rely
abil
able
ity
state or quality
Etymology
the word 'reliability' is a modern english formation built upon the older verb 'rely'. the core concept originates from the latin 'religare', meaning 'to bind back or fasten', which conveys the idea of a secure connection or dependence. the suffix '-abilis' was added to create the adjective 'reliable', meaning 'able to be depended upon'. finally, the abstract noun-forming suffix '-ity' was appended, transforming it into 'reliability', which denotes the state or quality of being dependable. this etymological journey reflects a shift from the physical act of binding to the modern abstract qualities of trustworthiness and consistent performance.
Analysis
Structure: reli (to rely) + abil (able) + ity (state or quality)
reli (from english 'rely', itself from old french 'relier', meaning to bind together, from latin 'religare'); abil (from latin suffix '-abilis', indicating capacity or ability); ity (from latin '-itas', a suffix forming nouns indicating a state or condition).
Examples
the car's reliability is its main selling point.
we need to assess the reliability of these historical sources.
the reliability of the power grid is crucial for modern life.