Dependable means trustworthy and reliable, consistently delivering on promises or expectations.
History of the Word Dependable
Early Concepts of Dependability
The notion of dependability can be traced back to early human societies, where trust and reliability were essential for communal survival.
Dependability in Ancient Trade
In ancient trading networks, dependability was highly valued. Traders and merchants who delivered goods as promised built lasting reputations.
Industrial Revolution and Dependable Machinery
The Industrial Revolution marked a significant shift in dependability. The development of machinery and manufacturing processes revolutionized the industry.
Dependable Transportation
In the 20th century, the automobile and aviation industries placed a premium on dependable transportation systems, leading to advances in vehicle reliability.
Dependability in the Digital Age
In the modern era, the concept of dependability extends to technology. Its software and networks are critical for communication and business.
English (Dependable As Adjective)
Etymology
The term dependable originates from the Latin word “dependere,” meaning to hang down or to rely on. It evolved to Middle French dependable and later to English, embodying trustworthiness and reliability.
Pronunciation
Pronounced as /dɪˈpɛndəbəl/.
Adjective
| Adjective | Dependable |
| Comparative Degree | More dependable |
| Superlative Degree | Most dependable |
| Adverb | Dependably |
| Noun | Dependability |
Synonyms
- Reliable
- Trustworthy
- Steadfast
- Consistent
- Faithful
Antonyms
- Unreliable
- Undependable
- Inconsistent
- Unreliable
- Fickle
Derived Terms
- Dependably
- dependability
Translations of Dependable
- Spanish: confiable
- French: fiable
- German: zuverlässig
- Chinese (Simplified): 可靠的 (kěkào de)
- Japanese: 信頼性のある (shinraisei no aru)
- Arabic: موثوق (mawthuq)
- Hindi: विश्वसनीय (vishvasniya)
- Urdu: قائل کار (qa’il kar)
- Russian: надежный (nadezhnyy)
- Portuguese: confiável
Example Sentences
- His dependable work ethic made him an invaluable team member.
- Dependable transportation is crucial for daily commutes.
- The machine runs dependably, with minimal downtime.
FAQs (People May Also Ask)
What does dependable mean in everyday language?
It refers to something or someone you can trust and rely on consistently.
Why is dependability important in relationships?
It builds trust and forms the foundation for healthy connections.
Is dependability limited to people and machines?
No, it applies to various aspects of life, including technology, services, and systems.
Can someone become more dependable?
Yes, by consistently delivering on commitments and building trust over time.
What’s the difference between reliable and dependable?
They are often used interchangeably, but reliable can imply a broader sense of trustworthiness, while dependable suggests consistent reliability.