Underwrite

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈʌndəɹaɪt/, /ÊŒndəˈɹaɪt/

Origin

From Middle English underwriten, from Old English underwrītan ("to write at the foot of, write under, subscribe"), equivalent to - + write.

Full definition of underwrite

Verb

1. (transitive) To write below or under; subscribe.
2. (transitive, intransitive, obsolete) To subscribe (a document, policy etc.) with one's name.
3. (transitive) To sign; to put one's name to.
4. (transitive) To agree to pay by signing one's name; subscribe.
5. (transitive) Specifically, to assume financial responsibility for something, and guarantee it against failure.
6. (intransitive) To act as an underwriter.
• MarshallThe broker who procures the insurance ought not, by underwriting the policy, to deprive the parties of his unbiased testimony.
7. (transitive) To support, lend support to, guarantee the basis of.
8. (transitive) To submit to; put up with.

Derived terms

• underwriter
• underwriting