/shoor"i tee, shoor"tee, sherr"i tee, sherr"tee/ , n. , pl. sureties .
1. security against loss or damage or for the fulfillment of an obligation, the payment of a debt, etc.; a pledge, guaranty, or bond.
2. a person who has made himself or herself responsible for another, as a sponsor, godparent, or bondsman.
3. the state or quality of being sure.
4. certainty.
5. something that makes sure; ground of confidence or safety.
6. a person who is legally responsible for the debt, default, or delinquency of another.
7. assurance, esp. self-assurance.
[ 1300-50; ME surte seurte securitat-, s. of securitas SECURITY ]