Definition

The condition of having to pay back money or a favor to someone because you borrowed it or received help from them.

Example

After taking out a loan for his house, he felt a sense of indebtedness to the bank.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how our indebtedness affects our choices?

Yeah, it's crazy how much pressure it puts on us.

Right? Sometimes I feel like I can't make a move without thinking about what I owe.

Exactly! It really shapes our future decisions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indebtedness is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "debt" (from Old French *dette*, meaning something owed) and the suffix "-edness" (indicating a state or condition). The word refers to the state of being in debt or owing something.

Memory Tip

Think of being in a state of owing something ('debt') and that 'in-' means not having freedom from it. This helps you remember that 'indebtedness' means the condition of being in debt.

Visually Confused Words