Responsible means being accountable for something and handling it reliably. When you're responsible for feeding your dog, it's your job to make sure the dog gets fed every day, whether you feel like it or not. When a scientist is responsible for recording data in an experiment, everyone counts on those numbers being accurate and complete.

Being responsible shows up in two main ways. First, you can be responsible for something: a task, a pet, a promise, or a project. Your teacher might make you responsible for collecting homework, which means it's on you to get it done. Second, you can be a responsible person, someone who does what they say they'll do and can be trusted with important things.

The opposite of responsible is irresponsible: forgetting your commitments, making excuses, or leaving others to clean up your mistakes. A responsibility is a duty or obligation you've taken on. Some responsibilities you choose, like volunteering to organize a book drive. Others come with your role, like older siblings being responsible for setting a good example.

People earn more freedom and opportunities by proving they're responsible. Parents let responsible kids stay home alone or use the internet independently. Teachers give responsible students leadership roles and trust them with bigger projects.