Meaning of Word
Reliable refers to the quality of being dependable, trustworthy, and consistent in performance, behavior, or results. It describes something or someone you can count on to perform well over time.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Adjective: Capable of being trusted or depended upon to perform as expected.
- Adjective: Consistent in quality or performance, producing the same good results.
- Adjective: Not likely to fail or cause problems, and can be relied upon in various situations.
- Adjective: (Of a source or information) credible, accurate, or truthful.
History and Origin
The word “reliable” comes from the verb rely, which is derived from the Old French relier (to bind or fasten), from the Latin religare (to bind). It entered English in the late 16th century and evolved to describe the ability to depend on someone or something. The adjective form became common by the early 19th century, describing things or people who could be depended upon.
Detailed Explanation
“Reliable” describes a person, object, or system that consistently performs as expected, without failure. In terms of a person, it refers to someone who can be counted on to do what they say they will do, meet deadlines, and be trustworthy. When applied to objects or systems, “reliable” suggests that they function without malfunctioning and can be depended on for consistent results. It also implies honesty or credibility, particularly when it describes a source of information or an individual’s integrity.
Example Sentences
- Sarah is known for being a reliable employee who always meets her deadlines.
- The weather forecast was accurate because it came from a reliable source.
- The car has been very reliable; it starts every time without any issues.
- He is a reliable friend who can always be trusted to keep a secret.
- The team needs a reliable leader to guide them through tough challenges.
- You can always rely on John’s advice because he’s a reliable source of information.
- The computer system has proven to be highly reliable, rarely experiencing downtime.
- We need a reliable supplier to ensure our production doesn’t halt.
- The doctor’s diagnosis was reliable, and I felt confident in proceeding with the treatment.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Dependable: Capable of being counted on to perform consistently and well.
- Trustworthy: Deserving of trust or confidence, particularly in terms of integrity.
- Consistent: Always behaving or performing in a similar and predictable way.
- Steady: Unchanging or stable over time, offering reliability in results.
- Credible: Able to be believed or trusted, especially in the context of information.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Faithful: Loyal and reliable, particularly in relationships or duties.
- Loyal: Steadfast in allegiance or support, dependable over time.
- Secure: Free from risk or danger, indicating a reliable and safe condition.
- Honest: Free from deceit, adding to one’s reliability in terms of integrity.
- Stable: Not likely to change unexpectedly, ensuring predictable outcomes.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Reliable Source: A trusted or dependable origin for information or advice.
- Reliable Data: Information that consistently reflects accurate or truthful facts.
- Reliable Friend: A person you can depend on in any situation.
- Reliable Service: A service that consistently meets expectations and delivers as promised.
- Reliable Equipment: Tools or machinery that consistently function well without failure.
Antonyms
- Unreliable: Not dependable or likely to fail in performance.
- Inconsistent: Lacking uniformity in behavior, results, or performance.
- Undependable: Not trustworthy or reliable; prone to failure.
- Erratic: Acting in an unpredictable or irregular manner, lacking consistency.
- Untrustworthy: Not deserving of trust or confidence, unreliable in actions or behavior.
