insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈsäl-vən(t)-sē 

-ˈsȯl-

: the fact or state of being insolvent : inability to pay debts

Synonyms of insolvency

• bankruptcy

Examples of insolvency in a Sentence

unless the economy improves, many resorts in the area face insolvency

Recent Examples on the Web

Two county education board members sent letters to State Superintendent Tony Thurmond on Thursday in support of Sacramento City Unified School District, arguing that state intervention could help the district avoid insolvency. — Chaewon Chung august 8, Sacbee.com, 8 Aug. 2026

The Sacramento City Unified School District Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday to appeal a county fiscal advisor's decision blocking a labor agreement the district says is critical to avoiding insolvency. — Madisen Keavy, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026

Mayweather, in contrast, is not in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 July 2026

Bipartisan commissions are proposed to tackle Social Security's looming 2032 insolvency, threatening a 22% benefit cut. — Howard Gleckman, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for insolvency

• solvency

Kids Definition

insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈsäl-vən-sē 

plural insolvencies

: the quality or state of being insolvent

Legal Definition

insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy in-ˈsäl-vən-sē 

plural insolvencies

1

: the fact or state of being insolvent compare bankruptcy

2

: insufficiency (as of an estate) to discharge all enforceable debts

Note: Insolvency matters are covered under the Bankruptcy Code.