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 risk pool cannot calculate member rates until reinsurance costs become clear. —Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026

Insurance and reinsurance are part of that system. —Jim Williamson, Fortune, 26 May 2026

Experts say policyholders can face threats from reinsurance deals when promises haven’t been truly transferred to other companies and the IOUs boomerang to the original insurers, which may not have the cushion to cover them. —Gretchen Morgenson, NBC news, 20 May 2026

In IconArrows pointing outwards The two companies will also collaborate in reinsurance and look for strategic investments around the world. —Alex Crippen, CNBC, 28 Mar. 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