underwriter

noun

un·​der·​writ·​er ˈən-dər-ˌrī-tər 

ˈən-də-

1

: one that underwrites : guarantor

2

a

: one that underwrites a policy of insurance : insurer

b

: one who selects risks to be solicited or rates the acceptability of risks solicited

3

: one that underwrites a security issue

Examples of underwriter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Filled with issuers, advisors, underwriters, and attorneys, a bond issue can sometimes take months to years to get to market. —Barnet Sherman, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

Those jobs range from managers and analysts to underwriters and administrative assistants, according to the earlier 14-page filing. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 26 Nov. 2024

The filing details the company's financial activities, including the completion of its IPO and the subsequent exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option, which raised additional funds. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024

If the Laurie Brothers raised the tug, the insurance underwriters could claim ownership. —Andrea Margolis, Fox News, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

underwriter

noun

un·​der·​writ·​er ˈən-dər-ˌrī-tər 

1

a

: a person (as an individual or a company) who underwrites an insurance policy : insurer

b

: a person who assesses risks to be covered by an insurance policy

2

: a person (as an individual or company) who underwrites a security issue compare issuer

Note: The Securities Act of 1933 requires dealers, issuers, and underwriters to file registration statements for the securities that they sell.