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life insurance

American  

noun

  1. insurance providing for payment of a sum of money to a named beneficiary upon the death of the policyholder or to the policyholder if still living after reaching a specified age.


life insurance British  

noun

  1. another name for life assurance

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of life insurance

First recorded in 1800–10

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.

“The transaction represents an important step in our ambition to become a leading U.S. life insurance and retirement group,” Aegon Chief Executive Lard Friese said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

While it’s often the most affordable type of life insurance relative to the payout, premiums can increase significantly for smokers or those with health conditions.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

It’s more expensive than term life insurance and, in your 50s, it could cost $500 a month for one $500,000 policy, or less if you have a smaller payout.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

While you may ultimately decide against life insurance for your mother at this time, these are useful conversations to have.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

When one $2,000 pledge was rejected, Anthony offered her life insurance to cover the difference.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling