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

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

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

"There are one-time costs such as the security deposit, application fees and potential broker fees. Moving expenses can be surprisingly high — even if you're moving only a short distance."

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2025

Still, it’s not quite as cheap as it seems: Each tenant must come up with a security deposit of about $10,000.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2024

Better yet, the security deposit is only $100, which I produce on the spot.

From "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich

Related Words

• deposit