assurance

noun

as·​sur·​ance ə-ˈshu̇r-ən(t)s How to pronounce assurance (audio)
1
: the state of being assured: such as
a
: a being certain in the mind
the puritan's assurance of salvation
b
: confidence of mind or manner : easy freedom from self-doubt or uncertainty
spoke with assurance about his future plans
also : excessive self-confidence : brashness, presumption
c
2
: something that inspires or tends to inspire confidence
gave repeated assurances of goodwill
3
: the act or action of assuring someone or something: such as
a
: pledge, guarantee
You have my solemn assurance that it is true.
b
: the act of conveying real property (see real entry 1 sense 2)
also : the instrument (see instrument entry 1 sense 5) by which it is conveyed
c
chiefly British : insurance
Choose the Right Synonym for assurance

confidence, assurance, self-possession, aplomb mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment.

confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

Examples of assurance in a Sentence

They lent us the money with the assurance that they would be repaid soon. He has the assurance of continued support from his boss. He spoke with quiet assurance about his future plans. She gave him every assurance that she would be there when he returned.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The Arab Gulf countries haven’t publicly offered such assurances. Farnoush Amiri, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2024 Mark Leverette, partner, assurance and advisory at accountants BPM points out that retrofitting existing structures can be up to six times more efficient at reducing carbon emissions than demolishing and rebuilding. Felicia Jackson, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Tesla responded Thursday by posting a video on X bragging about the robot's capabilities in what was seen as an attempt to provide assurances that the demonstration wasn't all smoke and mirrors. Nathan Bomey, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024 Investors are seeking assurance that EVs will not remain profitless and that GM can bring down the costs of EVs. Jamie L. Lareau, Detroit Free Press, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for assurance 

Word History

Etymology

see assure

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of assurance was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near assurance

Cite this Entry

“Assurance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assurance. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

assurance

noun
as·​sur·​ance ə-ˈshu̇r-ən(t)s How to pronounce assurance (audio)
1
: the act of assuring
2
: the state of being sure or certain
3
chiefly British : insurance sense 1
4

Legal Definition

assurance

noun
as·​sur·​ance
1
a
: the act of assuring
2
: the act of conveying real property
also : the document by which it is conveyed
3
chiefly British : insurance

More from Merriam-Webster on assurance

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