n. 1 the act or an instance of insuring. 2 a a sum paid for this; a premium. b a sum paid out as compensation for theft, damage, loss, etc. 3 = insurance policy. 4 a measure taken to provide for a possible contingency (take an umbrella as insurance). insurance agent Brit. a person employed to collect premiums door to door. insurance company Brit. a company engaged in the business of insurance. insurance policy Brit. 1 a contract of insurance. 2 a document detailing such a policy and constituting a contract. insurance stamp Brit. hist. a stamp certifying the payment of a sum, usu. paid weekly, for National Insurance.
[ earlier ensurance f. OF enserance (as ENSURE) ]