insolvent

[in-sol-vuhnt]

adjective

1. not solvent; unable to satisfy creditors or discharge liabilities, either because liabilities exceed assets or because of inability to pay debts as they mature.

   Synonyms: bankrupt, impoverished, destitute, penniless

2. pertaining to bankrupt persons or bankruptcy.

noun

1. a person who is insolvent.

insolvent

/ ɪnˈsɒlvənt /

adjective

1. (of a person, company, etc) having insufficient assets to meet debts and liabilities; bankrupt

2. of or relating to bankrupts or bankruptcy

noun

1. a person who is insolvent; bankrupt

Other Word Forms

• insolvency noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of insolvent¹

First recorded in 1585–95; in- ³ + solvent

Example Sentences

She thinks there could be a case for a "central UK pot" that pays out those who are owed a tribunal award when a company becomes insolvent.

From BBC

"Canada Post is effectively insolvent, and repeated bailouts are not a long-term solution," he said in a statement.

From BBC

FTI Consulting is advising the government on SAR contingency planning - this would happen if Thames becomes insolvent, cannot fulfil its duties or breaches an enforcement order.

From BBC

The diocese acknowledged that the value of Diocesan assets available to resolve claims, including any available insurance coverage, may not be sufficient to cover the claims and could leave the diocese insolvent.

From Los Angeles Times

The CCN had previously warned that without an extension, 18 county and unitary councils would become "insolvent overnight".

From BBC

Related Words

• bankrupt 
• broke 
• failed 
• indebted 
• strapped