policyholder

American  

[pol-uh-see-hohl-der] / ˈpɒl ə siˌhoʊl dər /

noun

1. the individual or firm in whose name an insurance policy is written; an insured.

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policyholder British  

/ ˈpɒlɪsɪˌhəʊldə /

noun

1. a person or organization in whose name an insurance policy is registered

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Etymology

Origin of policyholder

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; policy ² + holder

Example Sentences

If the insured person dies during the term, beneficiaries will receive a payout, but if the term expires and the policyholder is still alive, the coverage expires with no payout.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

During a decade of ultralow bond rates, private-equity-controlled insurers surged ahead of traditional firms by investing policyholder premiums in higher risk private credit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Lara rejected requests from policyholder advocates that he delay approval of State Farm’s pending rate hikes until the company’s claims practices were addressed.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

Even after the death of the policyholder, the carrier may have to pay the death benefits, if it has not honored its obligations.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 12, 2025

When a policyholder died, Spaulding placed advertisements trumpeting the delivery of the Mutual check as if the person had won the lottery.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson