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

Insurers blamed both practices for a years-long stretch of net losses and difficulty securing affordable reinsurance. —Ron Hurtibise, Sun Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2026

Many insurance executives have created webs of companies that bill the insurance company for basic services, such as handling claims or providing reinsurance. —Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 21 Jan. 2026

That’s why insurers must hold more capital and why reinsurance matters. —Bill Frist, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

There have been plenty of proclamations from Gulf financial centers about building insurance and reinsurance hubs. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 23 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reinsurance

• reassurance
• assurance
• insurance
• durance

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