insolvency

noun

in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈsäl-vən(t)-sē How to pronounce insolvency (audio)
-ˈsȯl-
Synonyms of insolvencynext
: the fact or state of being insolvent : inability to pay debts

Synonyms of insolvency

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Examples of insolvency in a Sentence

unless the economy improves, many resorts in the area face insolvency
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cancy McArn, the district’s superintendent, sent a rebuttal letter Thursday to Gordon rejecting the county office’s conclusion that the new teachers’ union agreement would not provide enough financial relief to help the district avoid insolvency. — Chaewon Chung updated July 31, Sacbee.com, 1 Aug. 2026 The Sacramento City Teachers Association (SCTA) is urging the district to appeal the decision, arguing the agreement would have provided nearly $100 million in financial relief and helped the district avoid insolvency. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026 Mayweather, in contrast, is not in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 July 2026 Bipartisan commissions are proposed to tackle Social Security's looming 2032 insolvency, threatening a 22% benefit cut. — Howard Gleckman, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for insolvency

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insolvency was in 1660

Rhymes for insolvency

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Browse Nearby Words

insolvence
insolvency
insolvency law
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Cite this Entry

“Insolvency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insolvency. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

insolvency

noun
in·​sol·​ven·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈsäl-vən-sē How to pronounce insolvency (audio)
plural insolvencies
: the quality or state of being insolvent

Legal Definition

insolvency

noun
in·​sol·​ven·​cy in-ˈsäl-vən-sē How to pronounce insolvency (audio)
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.

More from Merriam-Webster on insolvency

Nglish: Translation of insolvency for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about insolvency

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