security deposit

American  

[si-kyoor-i-tee-di-pahz-it] / sɪˈkyʊər ɪ ti dɪˌpɑz ɪt /

noun

1. a deposit or sum of money paid in advance to an owner when renting something, usually refundable and meant to cover the owner's costs in case of damages.

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Example Sentences

I also know it’s easy to think of your security deposit as being gone anyway; you cannot see that money and have no control over it.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

If the landlord fails to return the security deposit or provide a written statement of damages within 14 days of the tenant’s request for it, they are in violation of these provisions.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

Moving expenses can depend on the size of the move, the time of year, the distance and the cost of your new rent, security deposit and other fees.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2025

You will no longer be required to pay rent and your landlord must return your security deposit.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2025

They put the money toward a security deposit for a one-bed- room apartment in the Twenties, off Third Avenue.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri

Related Words

• deposit