Dictionary
answerable
adjective an·swer·able \ˈan(t)-s(ə-)rə-bəl\
: required to explain actions or decisions to someone
: responsible for something
: capable of being answered
Full Definition of ANSWERABLE
2
: liable to be called to account : responsible
3
archaic : corresponding, similar
4
: capable of being refuted
— an·swer·abil·i·ty \ˌan(t)-s(ə-)rə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
See answerable defined for English-language learners
See answerable defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of ANSWERABLE
1536
Related to ANSWERABLE
- Synonyms
- accountable, amenable, responsible, liable
- Antonyms
- irresponsible, nonaccountable, unaccountable
Synonym Discussion of ANSWERABLE
responsible, answerable, accountable, amenable, liable mean subject to being held to account. responsible implies holding a specific office, duty, or trust <the bureau responsible for revenue collection>. answerable suggests a relation between one having a moral or legal obligation and a court or other authority charged with oversight of its observance <an intelligence agency answerable to Congress>. accountable suggests imminence of retribution for unfulfilled trust or violated obligation <elected officials are accountable to the voters>. amenable and liable stress the fact of subjection to review, censure, or control by a designated authority under certain conditions <laws are amenable to judicial review> <not liable for the debts of the former spouse>.
ANSWERABLE Defined for Kids
answerable
adjective an·swer·able \ˈan-sə-rə-bəl\
Definition of ANSWERABLE for Kids
1
: responsible 1 <You are answerable for your actions.>
2
: possible to answer <an answerable question>
Learn More About ANSWERABLE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: answeringlyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: answer All Words Near: answerable
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up answerable? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).