R ˈshu̇r(ə)]d.]ē, ]t], ]i sometimes ˈshər-; - R ˈshu̇ə], ˈshōə], ˈshȯ(ə)], ˈshu̇rə], ˈshōrə], ˈshȯrə] sometimes ˈshə̄\ noun
( -es )
Etymology: Middle English surte, from Middle French surté, from Latin securitat-, securitas safety, security — more at security
1. : the state or condition of being sure: as
a. obsolete : safety or security from danger
b. : certainty of knowledge (as of a fact or an event)
there is no surety he ever reached the river — Julian Dana
unable to predict a development with surety
c. : confidence and sureness in action
a bit less surety of walk — Donald Windham
2.
a. : something that confirms or makes sure : a pledge or other formal engagement given for the fulfillment of an undertaking : guarantee
b. : ground of confidence or security (as against loss or damage or for payment or the performance of some act)
3.
a. : a person formerly given or giving himself as a gage or pledge : hostage
b. : one (as a sponsor at baptism or a bondsman) who makes a pledge in behalf of another and accepts certain accruing responsibilities : a person who is bound on an obligation from which another by the discharge of a duty should relieve him : one who has become legally liable for the debt, default, or failure in duty (as appearance in court or payment of a debt) of another — compare principal