Agreement

Definition

Agreement is a noun that refers to a mutual arrangement or contract reached by two or more parties. It also denotes a state of harmony or consensus among individuals, groups, or ideas.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈɡriːmənt/
• Respelling: uh-GREE-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈɡriːmənt/
• Respelling: uh-GREE-muhnt

Etymology

The word "agreement" originates from the Old French "agreer," meaning "to please," derived from "a" (to) and "gre" (will or consent). It entered Middle English in the 14th century, initially referring to harmonious consent.

Derivatives

• Agree (verb)
• Agreeable (adjective)
• Agreemental (adjective)
• Agreed (adjective)
• Disagreement (noun)

Synonyms

• Contract
• Accord
• Consensus

Antonyms

• Disagreement
• Conflict
• Discord

Usage

The term "agreement" is used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate mutual understanding or accord. For example, "The two countries signed a trade agreement," or "They reached an agreement after discussing the project."

Related Terms

• Contract: A legally binding agreement between parties.
• Consent: Voluntary approval or acceptance.
• Harmony: A state of alignment or concord.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A mutual arrangement or contract: Refers to a formal or informal commitment between two or more parties.
  • Example: "The agreement outlined the terms of the partnership."
• Harmony or consensus: Denotes a state of alignment or shared perspective among individuals or groups.
  • Example: "There was agreement on the need for immediate action."
• Grammar: Concord between subject and verb: Refers to the alignment of grammatical elements within a sentence.
  • Example: "In English, there must be subject-verb agreement."