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Synonyms

reliable

American  
[ri-lahy-uh-buhl] / rɪˈlaɪ ə bəl /

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 British  
/ rɪˈlaɪəbəl /

adjective

  1. able to be trusted; predictable or dependable

"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

Related Words

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.

Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of reliable

First recorded in 1560–70; rely + -able

Compare meaning

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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.

The challenge is that reliable samples from decades ago are hard to find.

From Science Daily

Their rigid structure allows them to anchor within soft polymers, adding strength while maintaining a reliable conductive network.

From Science Daily

Because the sample was carefully sealed and protected, it provides a rare and reliable record of Bennu's original chemistry.

From Science Daily

But I certainly expected reliable Wi-Fi, business-class seat or no, especially when there’s a charge for it.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Secure ballot envelope identifiers provide a reliable, auditable mechanism to enforce Federal law without unduly burdening or infringing on the rights of eligible voters,” the order reads.

From Los Angeles Times