Investment

Definition

Investment is a noun that refers to the act of allocating resources, usually money, with the expectation of generating profit or achieving benefits in the future. It can also denote the commitment of time, effort, or energy into something to achieve a result.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɛstmənt/
• Respelling: in-VEST-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɛstmənt/
• Respelling: in-VEST-muhnt

Etymology

The word "investment" originates from the Latin "investire," meaning "to clothe" or "to surround," composed of "in-" (into) and "vestire" (to dress). It was adopted into Middle English through Old French "investir," later acquiring its financial connotation in the 17th century.

Derivatives

• Investor (noun)
• Invest (verb)
• Reinvestment (noun)
• Overinvestment (noun)
• Underinvestment (noun)

Synonyms

• Expenditure
• Allocation
• Commitment

Antonyms

• Divestment
• Withdrawal
• Disinvestment

Usage

The term "investment" is commonly used in financial, economic, and personal contexts. For example, "Real estate is often considered a secure investment," or "The company’s investment in new technology paid off."

Related Terms

• Capital: Wealth in the form of money or assets.
• Portfolio: A collection of investments held by an individual or organization.
• Profit: The financial gain made from an investment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of committing money, time, or effort to achieve a future benefit: Refers to the allocation of resources with the expectation of returns.
  • Example: "Her investment in education led to a successful career."
• A sum of money or resource allocated to generate profit: Indicates financial involvement in ventures or assets.
  • Example: "The company’s investment in renewable energy has grown significantly."
• The act of surrounding or enclosing something: An archaic meaning related to the original sense of "investing."
  • Example: "The castle was under investment by the enemy forces."