dependable

American  

[dih-pen-duh-buhl] / dɪˈpɛn də bəl /

adjective

1. capable of being depended on; worthy of trust; reliable.

   a dependable employee.

   Synonyms:

   responsible, faithful, steadfast, trusty, trustworthy

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dependable British  

/ dɪˈpɛndəbəl /

adjective

1. able to be depended on; reliable; trustworthy

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Other Word Forms

• dependability noun
• dependableness noun
• dependably adverb
• interdependable adjective
• nondependable adjective
• nondependableness noun
• nondependably adverb
• predependable adjective
• undependable adjective
• undependableness noun
• undependably adverb

Etymology

Origin of dependable

First recorded in 1725–35; depend + -able

Compare meaning

How does dependable compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• reliable vs. dependable

Example Sentences

The law reflects a hard truth—that the way a government treats religious minorities is a dependable indicator of its stability and trustworthiness as an international partner.

From The Wall Street Journal

As the world looks for dependable renewable energy solutions to address climate goals, innovations like this could help tap into the enormous, largely unused energy stored in the oceans.

From Science Daily

As countries expand renewable energy production, the need for dependable and efficient battery storage continues to grow.

From Science Daily

"He was the toughest man I ever met...as well as being strong, he was kind and dependable."

From BBC

He also said that PLA troops had been "loyal to the Party... and proven themselves capable and dependable".

From BBC

Related Words

• loyal
• staunch
• steady
• sturdy
• true
• trustworthy