insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈsäl-vən(t)-sē 

-ˈsȯl-

: the fact or state of being insolvent : inability to pay debts

Synonyms

• bankruptcy
• failure
• ruin

Examples of insolvency in a Sentence

unless the economy improves, many resorts in the area face insolvency

Recent Examples on the Web

Another $635 million pension bailout was approved on Oct. 17 for the Detroit Carpenters Fund, which covers, more than 22,500 metro Detroit carpenters and millwright, so avert insolvency. —Susan Tompor, Detroit Free Press, 31 Oct. 2024

Speculation has swirled for months that Spirit might be approaching insolvency. —Rocio Fabbro, Quartz, 25 Oct. 2024

While more of a household name in Great Britain, Wakeman’s ethereal-sorcerer persona onstage was matched in his heyday for barroom carousing and insolvency. —Jordan Hoffman, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2024

At stake is whether the city will continue along its current self-destructive path or correct course before reaching insolvency. —East Bay Times Editorial, The Mercury News, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈsäl-vən-sē 

plural insolvencies

: the quality or state of being insolvent

Legal Definition

insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy in-ˈsäl-vən-sē 

plural insolvencies

1

: the fact or state of being insolvent compare bankruptcy

2

: insufficiency (as of an estate) to discharge all enforceable debts

Note: Insolvency matters are covered under the Bankruptcy Code.