What does repeatability mean?
Repeatability is the quality of being able to repeat an action, process, measurement, or experiment and obtain a consistent result. It is particularly important in science, engineering, manufacturing, and quality control, where dependable outcomes allow results to be compared and trusted. A procedure with good repeatability should produce similar results when performed under the same conditions, although repeatability does not necessarily mean that the procedure is accurate or free from bias. The word is often used with terms such as measurement, method, test, and trial. In research discussions, it can overlap with reproducibility, but reproducibility more often refers to the broader question of whether findings can be obtained again by another researcher or in an independent setting. Both terms describe consistency, but they focus on different aspects of the process.
nounThe quality or state of being able to be repeated, especially with the same result or outcome. It can also refer to the consistency with which a process, experiment, or measurement can be reproduced.
- The quality or state of being repeatable, especially with the same result or outcome.
- The degree to which a process, measurement, or experiment can be reproduced consistently.
"The repeatability of the experiment was essential to the study's credibility."
"The instrument was calibrated to ensure repeatability across multiple trials."
"Reviewers questioned the repeatability of the findings because the sample size was small."
Usually used in the plural when discussing the different aspects or types of repeatability within a technical or scientific field; the singular is more common in general discussion.
"The study compared the repeatabilities of several measurement techniques."
Repeatability is what turns a promising result into a dependable one.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does repeatability come from?
The word combines repeat with the suffix -ability, meaning “the quality of being able to” do something. Repeat comes through Middle English from Old French repetir, ultimately from Latin repetere, “to repeat, do again, or return.” The same Latin root also underlies repetition, repetitive, and repertoire, all of which developed by combining or adapting Latin forms related to repetition.
How repeatability is actually used
The term is especially common in scientific and technical contexts, including laboratory work, manufacturing, quality control, and research evaluation. In general writing, reproducibility is often more natural when referring to the replication of research findings.
Easily confused with repeatability
Repeatability emphasizes the ability to repeat a process or measurement, while reproducibility more specifically concerns obtaining the same result when an experiment or study is repeated.