visibility

noun

vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌvi-zə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

plural visibilities

1

: the quality or state of being visible

2

a

: the degree of clearness (as of the atmosphere or ocean)

specifically : the greatest distance through the atmosphere toward the horizon at which prominent objects can be identified with the naked eye

b

: capability of being readily noticed

c

: capability of affording an unobstructed view

d

: publicity sense 2d

3

: a measure of the ability of radiant energy to evoke visual sensation

Examples of visibility in a Sentence

The extra publicity helped to increase the company's visibility.

Recent Examples on the Web

Smoke was also limiting visibility and slowing traffic on the busy U.S. 101 freeway, south of the state route, the department said on X. High winds caused spot fires to ignite 2½ miles away in front of the site of the original blaze, Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. —Phil Helsel, NBC News, 7 Nov. 2024

There’s been scant mention of it even though it’s obviously increased in visibility over the past eight years. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2024

However, the moon will be about 79% full, which will drown out visibility, according to the AMS. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024

Use this routine to promote visibility and drive accountability and productivity. —Chris Williams, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

visibility

noun

vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌviz-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or state of being visible

2

: the degree of clearness of the atmosphere

Medical Definition

visibility

noun

vis·​i·​bil·​i·​ty ˌviz-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

plural visibilities

1

: the quality or state of being visible

2

: a measure of the ability of radiant energy to evoke visual sensation