rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryviabilityAbility to survive
noun

viability

vye-uh-BIL-uh-tee/ˌvaɪəˈbɪləti/

The ability to survive and develop successfully.

Scientists test the viability of seeds before planting them.

A seed-germination test makes the capacity to live visible: several seeds on damp paper have produced healthy roots and first green shoots, while two remain unsprouted.
Etymology
viFrenchlife
+abilFrenchcapable of
+ityFrenchstate or quality

The pieces express the quality of being capable of life. Originally applied especially to newborn infants, viability broadened from literal survival to the capacity for continued existence, practical operation, or success.

In context

Rebel HQ15:53
our viability, our continued survival as as a republic or even a nation uh is is is uh dependent on us not enforcing our laws
Barrett Brown Interview: Journalist IMPRISONED For Exposing Truth

More examples

  • Rising costs threaten the long-term viability of the business.
  • The pilot program helps us assess the plan's viability.
  • Extreme heat can reduce the viability of fish eggs.

Forms

viability

viable adjective — Capable of surviving, developing, or succeeding.

Similar words

feasibility
Emphasizes whether something can be done, rather than sustained.
sustainability
Emphasizes continued support over time, not just initial survival.