reinsurance

noun

re·​in·​sur·​ance ˌrē-ən-ˈshu̇r-ən(t)s 

ˌrē-ən-ˈshər-

also (ˌ)rē-ˈin-ˌshu̇r-, 

(ˌ)rē-ˈin-ˌshə̇r-

: insurance by another insurer of all or a part of a risk previously assumed by an insurance company

Examples of reinsurance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The strategy provided insurers with concessions such as the right to charge policyholders for the reinsurance carriers must buy to protect themselves from catastrophes, such as the January 2025 wildfires. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2026

But the impact of reinsurance extends far beyond disaster protection. — Monica Ningen, Fortune, 29 Oct. 2026

The dynamic is helping Aon maintain growth despite softer pricing in commercial insurance and reinsurance markets. — Contessa Brewer, CNBC, 29 Oct. 2026

After Andrew, Florida ultimately developed a system combining private insurance, public catastrophe reinsurance and a residual market for consumers unable to obtain private coverage. — Kevin M. McCarty, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reinsurance

• assurance
• insurance
• durance
• reassurance

Legal Definition

reinsurance

noun

re·​in·​sur·​ance ˌrē-ən-ˈshu̇r-əns, -ˈin-ˌshu̇r- 

: insurance or indemnification by a second insurer of all or part of a risk assumed by another insurer as contracted for by the first insurer see also cede compare direct insurance, retrocession sense 3