reliable

[ri-lahy-uh-buhl] / rɪˈlaɪ ə bəl /

ADJECTIVE

trustworthy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

decent decisive dependable good honest positive predictable respectable safe sincere solid stable steady strong true

WEAK

candid careful certain come-through conscientious constant definite determined devoted faithful firm high-principled honorable impeccable incorrupt loyal okay proved reputable responsible righteous sound staunch steadfast sterling sure there tried tried-and-true true-blue true-hearted trusty unequivocal unfailing unimpeachable upright veracious

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bad broken corrupt dishonest evil false fraudulent inadequate indefinite intermittent soft uncertain undependable unfixed unreal unreliable unrespectable unstable unsteady unsuitable unsure untrustworthy vulnerable weak wobbly

WEAK

deceptive irresponsible

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 Western rare earth sector stands at a critical inflection point, as governments and strategic industries urgently seek reliable sources of critical rare earths — particularly scarce heavy rare earths.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

But they care most about reliable water delivery, so “if it means our members can still receive and deliver water to growers and cities, then it kind of is what it is.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

Arsenal were also without Bukayo Saka, who missed out with an Achilles injury, but despite usually being one of Arsenal's most reliable forwards, his numbers are down this season.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

The device proved reliable across a wide range of conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 19, 2026

We had three meals a day, reliable medical care, and the protection of the US military.

From "The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson

Vocabulary lists containing reliable

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

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Positive Words to Describe a Person

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"My Favorite Chaperone," Vocabulary from the short story

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