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

These patterns can make it harder to maintain long-term social ties and dependable caregiving support.

From Science Daily

This organization’s ostensible goal is to “promote stability, restore dependable and lawful governance, and secure enduring peace in areas affected or threatened by conflict.”

From Salon

But its charter, which was drafted by the White House, says the board’s goal is “to promote stability, restore dependable and lawful governance, and secure enduring peace in areas affected or threatened by conflict.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The text says the board would be "an international organisation that seeks to promote stability, restore dependable and lawful governance, and secure enduring peace in areas affected or threatened by conflict".

From BBC

These strengths make it a dependable choice for many users.

From Salon

Related Words

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