English Reference
noun

underwriting

n.
US /ˈəndɝˈɹaɪtɪŋ/ UK /ˌʌndəɹˈaɪtɪŋ/ un·der·writ·ing

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Technical Law

    the process of checking if a person or project is a safe risk before giving insurance or a loan.

    the formal process of evaluating the risk of a potential client or project to determine coverage, pricing, or creditworthiness.

    Simple

    The bank's underwriting process took two weeks because they had to check my credit history.

    In context

    Strict underwriting standards were implemented to ensure that the insurance firm remained solvent during the economic downturn.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun in business contexts.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the act of agreeing to pay for something or support a new business deal.

    the act of providing a financial guarantee or backing for a new issue of securities or a large-scale project.

    Simple

    The company secured the underwriting for their new project from a major investment bank.

    In context

    The investment bank provided the underwriting for the initial public offering, agreeing to purchase any shares that remained unsold to the public.

    Usage

    Commonly appears in the context of IPOs and large corporate contracts.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated