Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

reputable

American  
[rep-yuh-tuh-buhl] / ˈrɛp jə tə bəl /

adjective

  1. held in good repute; honorable; respectable; estimable.

    a reputable organization.

  2. considered to be good or acceptable usage; standard.

    reputable speech.


reputable British  
/ ˈrɛpjʊtəbəl /

adjective

  1. having a good reputation; honoured, trustworthy, or respectable

  2. (of words) acceptable as good usage; standard

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of reputable

First recorded in 1605–15; repute + -able

Explanation

Want the real scoop on your favorite singer's latest romance? Then you should probably find a more reputable source than the tabloids — meaning someone with a better reputation, in this case for telling the truth. That's the thing with reputable reputations. People know you can be trusted, that you're honest and not trying to pull one over on anybody. Reputable institutions usually have a history of excellent service or outstanding work, and always come highly recommended. Reputable used car salesmen may seem scarce. The word reputable actually has a good deal of reputability itself, since it's been in standard use since the 17th century.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing reputable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But here’s a thought: Maybe the problem is not with Tennessee law but instead with the ethical standards that keep reputable medical professionals from participating in executions.

From Salon ● Oct. 3, 2026

Your next step is to find a reputable bank that will add those extra layers of protection for you.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 23, 2026

The aquarium advises the public to research the protected status of species and purchase pets through reputable vendors that can provide proof of where the animals came from.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 28, 2026

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said that, while home improvements can be stressful, "we're taking action to protect consumers, support reputable traders and make sure people can spend their money with greater confidence and security".

From BBC ● Aug. 27, 2026

"Any which looks prosperous or reputable," Sander said, "we can surely pass by."

From "The Shakespeare Stealer" by Gary L. Blackwood

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Join 14,000,000 vocabulary learners

Start learning new words today on VocabTrainer.
You'll remember them forever.

Start training