English Reference
noun

accessibility

n.
US /ˌæksɛsəˈbɪɫɪti/ UK /ɐksˌɛsəbˈɪlɪti/ ac·ces·si·bil·i·ty UK spelling accessibilities

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    how easy it is to reach a place or use a service.

    the quality of being easily reached, entered, or obtained. Uncountable in this general sense.

    Simple

    The new train station improved the accessibility of the city centre for commuters.

    In context

    The accessibility of the remote mountain village was significantly improved by the construction of a modern paved road and a reliable bus link.

    availabilityapproachability
    inaccessibility
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    features that help people with disabilities use technology or buildings.

    the design of products, devices, or environments for people with disabilities, particularly in digital or architectural contexts.

    Simple

    The website has good accessibility because it works well with screen readers.

    In context

    The developer prioritised accessibility by ensuring that all images had descriptive alt-text and the site was fully navigable via keyboard commands.

    Usage

    Often used in the context of web standards or building codes.

    usabilityinclusive design
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic

    how easy it is to understand a piece of writing or an idea.

    the quality of being easily understood or appreciated by a wide range of people.

    Simple

    The professor was praised for the accessibility of his lectures on complex physics.

    In context

    Critics lauded the novel for its accessibility, noting that it managed to explore profound philosophical themes without alienating the casual reader.

A distinct advantage to birding, especially compared to other types of outdoor recreation, is its accessibility.

The Conversation· 27 Jul 2026

The Andalusian city of Málaga is popular with all kinds of tourists, including those with accessibility needs.

The Local· 14 Aug 2025

From accessible + -ity, after Late Latin accessibilitas, from Latin accessibilis.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin accessibilis
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated