promissory

American  

[prom-uh-sawr-ee, -sohr-ee] / ˈprɒm əˌsɔr i, -ˌsoʊr i /

adjective

1. containing or implying a promise.

2. of the nature of a promise.

3. Insurance. of or noting agreements or representations stipulating what is required to take place after the issuance of a policy.

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promissory British  

/ ˈprɒmɪsərɪ /

adjective

1. containing, relating to, or having the nature of a promise

2. insurance stipulating how the provisions of an insurance contract will be fulfilled after it has been signed

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Other Word Forms

• nonpromissory adjective
• promissorily adverb

Etymology

Origin of promissory

From the Medieval Latin word prōmissōrius, dating back to 1640–50. See promise, -tory ¹

Explanation

Anything promissory has to do with a promise or agreement. Little kids who say "You promised!" are very interested in promissory matters. A promise is an agreement to do something, so anything promissory is related to a promise. A handshake is often a promissory gesture. Legally, a promissory note is an agreement to pay someone money. In court, lawyers might argue about whether a certain statement was promissory – that is, whether it was a promise that must be fulfilled. Whenever this word comes up, be sure to read the fine print.

Example Sentences

Yes, promissory estoppel is a legal doctrine in some states.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 23, 2026

The company said Wednesday that the Series F financing round includes $70 million in new capital and the conversion of $30 million in convertible promissory notes with accrued interest.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Scavino was also granted a $600,000 retention bonus and a $4 million “executive promissory note” paid in shares, according to SEC filings.

From Salon • Jun. 3, 2024

Keough’s lawsuit, which was reviewed by The Times, said Naussany Investments presented a deed of trust for Graceland and a standard promissory note to the estate via the Los Angeles County Superior Court in September.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2024

The company made nothing and sold nothing: It existed to hold assets and provide a reference for anyone who became skeptical of Holmes’s promissory notes.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson