Account

Definition

Account is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a record or statement of financial expenditures and receipts, or an arrangement with a bank to keep one’s money. As a verb, it means to consider or regard something in a specified way, or to provide an explanation for something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkaʊnt/
• Respelling: uh-KOWNT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkaʊnt/
• Respelling: uh-KOWNT

The pronunciation of "account" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "account" originates from the Old French word "aconter," meaning "to reckon" or "count." This was derived from the Latin word "computare," which means "to calculate" or "count."

Derivatives

• Accounting (noun)
• Accountant (noun)
• Accountable (adjective)
• Accountancy (noun)
• Accounter (noun, archaic)

Synonyms

• Record
• Explanation
• Statement

Antonyms

• Disregard
• Ignore
• Neglect

Usage

The term "account" is used in finance to refer to records of transactions, in banking as a place to store funds, and in general language to mean providing an explanation. For example, "She opened a savings account at the bank" or "He provided an account of his travels."

Related Terms

• Ledger: A book or collection of financial accounts.
• Statement: A formal report of account balances.
• Balance: The amount of money held in a financial account.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A record or statement of financial transactions: Refers to documented financial dealings, often maintained by an individual or business.
  • Example: "She keeps a detailed account of her expenses."
• An arrangement with a bank or financial institution: Refers to a service that allows individuals to store and manage their money.
  • Example: "He opened a new account at the local bank."
• A report or description of an event or situation: Indicates an explanation or narrative.
  • Example: "She gave a vivid account of her travels."

Verb

• To consider or regard in a specific way: Indicates forming a particular view or judgment about something.
  • Example: "They accounted him as trustworthy."
• To provide an explanation or justification: Refers to the act of explaining or clarifying.
  • Example: "He could not account for his whereabouts during the incident."