Debt

Definition

Debt is a noun that refers to an obligation or liability to repay money borrowed or services received, often with interest, to a lender or service provider. It can also imply a moral or social obligation to repay a favor or service.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɛt/
• Respelling: DET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɛt/
• Respelling: DET

Etymology

The word "debt" originates from the Latin "debitum," meaning "something owed," which evolved through Old French "dette" to Middle English. The silent "b" was added in English to reflect its Latin roots, despite the French influence.

Derivatives

• Debtor (noun)
• Indebted (adjective)
• Debtless (adjective)
• Indebtedness (noun)
• Debt-ridden (adjective)

Synonyms

• Liability
• Obligation
• Arrears

Antonyms

• Credit
• Asset
• None

Usage

The term "debt" is frequently used in financial contexts to refer to amounts owed to creditors, such as "She has a large student loan debt." It can also imply an obligation, as in "He felt a debt of gratitude for their support."

Related Terms

• Loan: An amount of money borrowed that is expected to be paid back with interest.
• Credit: The ability to borrow money or access goods with an obligation to repay later.
• Mortgage: A specific type of loan used to purchase property, with the property itself as collateral.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A sum of money owed by one person or organization to another: Refers to a financial obligation to repay borrowed funds, usually with interest.
  • Example: "The company struggled under heavy debt."
• A moral or social obligation to repay a favor or service: Implies a sense of duty or gratitude owed to someone for an action or favor.
  • Example: "He felt a debt of loyalty to his mentor."