Definition

A person or company that provides insurance or guarantees financial risks, often by evaluating applications for coverage or policies.

Example

The underwriter assessed the applicant's risk before approving the insurance policy.

Conversation

Do you know what an underwriter does in the insurance world?

Yeah, they assess risks and decide who gets coverage.

Exactly! I was thinking of becoming an underwriter myself.

That sounds interesting! It must be rewarding to help people find insurance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underwriter → It is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath or below) and "writer" (from Old English "writere", meaning one who writes). The term originally referred to someone who writes beneath a document, indicating their agreement or support, particularly in financial contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who writes their name beneath a document to show support or agreement — that's what an underwriter does.

Visually Confused Words