Claim

Definition

Claim is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an assertion of truth or a demand for something considered due. As a verb, it means to assert something as a fact or to demand ownership or recognition of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kleɪm/
• Respelling: klaym

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kleɪm/
• Respelling: klaym

The pronunciation of "claim" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "claim" originates from the Latin "clamare," meaning "to call out or declare," which passed into Old French as "clamer." It was adopted into Middle English with meanings related to declaring or asserting ownership.

Derivatives

• Claimant (noun)
• Claimable (adjective)
• Reclaim (verb)
• Disclaimer (noun)
• Proclaim (verb)

Synonyms

• Assert
• Demand
• Declare

Antonyms

• Deny
• Disclaim
• Reject

Usage

The term "claim" is often used to describe an assertion of truth, as in "She made a claim about the product’s benefits." It also commonly refers to a demand for ownership or compensation, as in "He filed a claim for insurance coverage."

Related Terms

• Assertion: A confident and forceful statement of fact or belief.
• Ownership: The act or state of possessing something.
• Entitlement: The belief that one is inherently deserving of privileges or rights.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An assertion of truth, often without evidence: A statement or assertion that something is true.
  • Example: "Her claim that she was misquoted sparked controversy."
• A demand for something due or believed to be owed: Refers to a right or title to something.
  • Example: "He submitted a claim for compensation."

Verb

• To assert something as true, often without proof: Used when stating or declaring something confidently.
  • Example: "She claimed that she had seen him there."
• To demand or assert ownership of something: Refers to the act of seeking recognition of one’s rights or property.
  • Example: "He claimed his inheritance after the reading of the will."