n. & v.
--n.
1. a Brit. a sum of money kept in an account in a bank. b anything stored or entrusted for safe keeping, usu. in a bank.
2 a a sum payable as a first instalment on an item bought on hire purchase, or as a pledge for a contract. b a returnable sum payable on the short-term hire of a car, boat, etc.
3 a a natural layer of sand, rock, coal, etc. b a layer of precipitated matter on a surface, e.g. fur on a kettle.
--v.tr. (deposited, depositing)
1. a put or lay down in a (usu. specified) place (deposited the book on the floor). b (of water, wind, etc.) leave (matter etc.) lying in a displaced position.
2 a store or entrust for keeping. b pay (a sum of money) into a bank account, esp. a deposit account.
3 pay (a sum) as a first instalment or as a pledge for a contract.
Phrases and idioms:
deposit account Brit. a bank account that pays interest but from which money cannot usu. be withdrawn without notice or loss of interest. on deposit (of money) placed in a deposit account.
Etymology: L depositum (n.), med.L depositare f. L deponere deposit- (as DEPONENT)