Definition

The act of repeatedly asking someone to pay a debt they owe.

Example

The company started dunning the client after the payment was overdue for several months.

Conversation

Have you ever had to deal with dunning letters from a bank?

Yeah, I got one last month, and it was so stressful!

I can't imagine how annoying that must be; it feels so aggressive.

It really does! I wish they would just call instead of sending those letters.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To demand payment of a debt, often in a persistent or annoying way.

Example

The company is dunning its clients for overdue invoices.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard that the bank is dunning you for the late payment.

Yeah, I got a notice in the mail about it yesterday.

You should definitely call them and explain your situation.

Root Explanation

Dunning → The word 'dunning' originates from the verb 'dun', which is derived from the Middle English 'dunnen', meaning to make a low, continuous sound or to demand payment. The term is often associated with the act of persistently demanding payment of a debt. Thus, 'dunning' refers to the act of making repeated demands for payment.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'dun' as a low sound that keeps coming back, just like how dunning means to repeatedly ask for payment.

Visually Confused Words