Definitions

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.

Nuclear energy is carbon-free and much more reliable than other kinds of electricity-generation, running at nearly full capacity year-round.

From Barron's • Jun. 26, 2026

As a result, researchers have spent years searching for a reliable solid-state alternative.

From Science Daily • Jun. 26, 2026

“Every Angeleno deserves to feel safe walking their dogs, returning home from work, and parking their cars at night, and the City is committed to delivering the reliable street lighting that makes that a reality.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 26, 2026

Pizza chains once owned a reliable American ritual: a sit-down dinner under a red-roofed Pizza Hut or a predictable Domino’s delivery on a lazy TV night.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

My loyalty was always so reliable, but I see now how twisted it was.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

Vocabulary lists containing reliable

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

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Positive Words to Describe a Person

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"My Favorite Chaperone," Vocabulary from the short story

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!