Definition
Deposit refers to the action of placing something, typically money, in a bank or a safe location, or placing an item somewhere for safekeeping. It can also refer to a natural accumulation of substances like minerals, sand, or sediment. As a noun, it refers to the sum of money or item placed in safekeeping or the accumulated material in a specific location.
Parts of Speech
Pronunciation
The pronunciation of "deposit" differs slightly between American and British English, mainly in the vowel sound of the second syllable.
Etymology
The word "deposit" comes from the Latin word "depositum," meaning "something entrusted," which is derived from "deponere," meaning "to lay aside" or "to put down." It entered English in the late 16th century, primarily referring to the act of placing something valuable in safekeeping.
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Usage
The term "deposit" is commonly used in financial, geological, and everyday contexts. In banking, it refers to the placement of money in an account. Geologically, it refers to the accumulation of natural materials, such as mineral deposits. It is also used in commerce and law to refer to an initial payment (a deposit) or items left for safekeeping. The term is versatile and widely applicable in various fields.
Related Terms
Detailed Definitions