usability

noun

us·​abil·​i·​ty ˌyü-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce usability (audio)
: the quality or state of being usable : ease of use
When netbooks arrived a couple of years ago, they were so tiny, only spider monkeys would find them usable. But as they've inched up in size and usability, their sales have taken off.David Pogue
One of the other great problems of computer software is preoccupation with bells and whistles, rather than usability. Even software that began as easily usable can evolve over time into something so burdened with complicated (and trivial) features that it is a challenge to figure out how to do the simplest thing.Thomas Sowell

Examples of usability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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All knives need to be sharpened over time to improve their usability, but some knives require more frequent sharpening. Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 Apr. 2025 While their existing setups score well in usability and integration, reliability and security remain key improvement areas. Forbes Research, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 The debut collection—featuring sculptural yet functional pieces, including a side table, armchair, sofa, stools, and screen room dividers—reflects a meticulous balance of artistic expression and everyday usability. Natalie Stoclet, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025 In this regard, local stablecoins can be seen as the bridge between global capital and local usability. Aaron Stanley, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for usability

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of usability was in 1842

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Cite this Entry

“Usability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/usability. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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