Meaning & Definition of word "Insurance"

Insurance

/ɪnˈʃʊərəns/

noun:

  • 1. A contractual agreement in which an individual or entity receives financial protection or reimbursement against losses from an insurance company.
    • Example: She purchased health insurance to cover her medical expenses.
  • 2. The act, system, or business of insuring, which involves the pooling of risks to mitigate losses.
    • Example: The insurance industry has been growing rapidly in recent years.
  • 3. An arrangement where a premium is paid in exchange for financial protection against specified contingencies.
    • Example: Auto insurance is mandatory in many states to safeguard against accidents.
  • 4. A promise of compensation for specific potential losses, such as life insurance, property insurance, and liability insurance.
    • Example: He took out life insurance to secure his family’s financial future.

Etymology

From Latin 'securare', meaning 'to make safe'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

insurance policy:

A document detailing the terms of an insurance agreement.

under insurance:

A situation where the coverage is insufficient to cover potential losses.

life insurance:

A type of insurance that pays out a sum of money upon the insured's death.

travel insurance:

Coverage designed to protect against risks while traveling.

Related Words

insurer:

A company or entity that provides insurance coverage.

insured:

A person or entity covered by an insurance policy.

premium:

The amount paid for an insurance policy.

claim:

A request for payment from an insurer for an insured loss.

Slang Meanings of insurance

Meaning: Insure

Example Sentence: You better insure that car if you want to drive it around here.

Meaning: Coverage

Example Sentence: I got full coverage on my ride after that accident.