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

Since 2008, Congress has transferred more than $275 billion into the Trust Fund to prevent insolvency, according to the non-partisan Congressional Research Service. —Louis Sigaud, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2026

The whistleblowers say that this exposes the company — and homeowners — to the risk of insolvency. —Scott Pham, CBS News, 20 Mar. 2026

The Pacific Surfliner, funded by the state and operated by Amtrak, and the COASTER, operated by the North County Transit District, are also staring down insolvency. —Catherine Blakespear, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Mar. 2026

Social Security is six years from insolvency. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 19 Mar. 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.