Definitions

debt

[det] / dɛt /

NOUN

money owed to others

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arrears bill capital commitment credit damage deficit due indebtedness liability mortgage obligation price tag receipt

STRONG

IOU albatross baggage bite check chit claim cuff debenture debit dues duty encumbrance invoice manifest note reckoning responsibility score tab tally voucher

WEAK

arrearage bad news below the line dead horse in hock in the hole in the red outstandings promissory note red ink

Antonyms

STRONG

irresponsibility

WEAK

asset cash excess profit

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fuel poverty National Energy Action said even the recent heatwave highlighted the need for debt relief and upgrading properties.

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2026

I know it’s tempting to hold on to points, but if you are truly trying to get out of debt, it might serve you better to use them.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

Under the plan, Dish intends to reorganize the business and pay down debt once the $20.25 billion of proceeds from the AT&T sale are received.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 30, 2026

But I can understand that it feels daunting — especially because you’re now aware of how much sacrifice it takes to pay off significant amounts of debt.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

And I could tell Brother Zesht had no intention of honoring the debt, if ever they met again.

From "The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams" by Daniel Nayeri

Vocabulary lists containing debt

Material World: Shopping Lingo

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The Great Depression and The New Deal

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Economics

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!