Meaning & Definition of word "Reckoning"

Reckoning

/ˈrɛkənɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. the process of calculating or estimating something.
    • Example: The accountant is conducting a reckoning of the company's expenses for the last quarter.
  • 2. a time when a person's actions are considered and judged.
    • Example: She faced a reckoning for her mistakes after the financial scandal was revealed.
  • 3. a judgment or settlement of accounts.
    • Example: The old feud came to a reckoning at the family reunion.
  • 4. a weighing or consideration of reasons or facts.
    • Example: In his reckoning, he realized that the risks outweighed the benefits.

Etymology

Middle English, from the verb reckon, derived from Old French 'recounte' meaning to recount or compute.

Common Phrases and Expressions

day of reckoning:

a time when consequences must be faced or accounts settled

final reckoning:

the last opportunity to settle debts or face consequences

reckoning with the past:

dealing with previous actions or events

Related Words

reckon:

to calculate or estimate

reckoner:

a person or tool that estimates or calculates

reckless:

without thinking about the consequences; rash

Slang Meanings of reckoning

Meaning: getting what's due

Example Sentence: After a long time of cheating, his day of reckoning came.

Meaning: payback time

Example Sentence: They'll have their reckoning when it comes time to pay up.