The word "indemnify" is spelled with the letter "m" followed by "n", which can be confusing for some people. However, the spelling represents the word's pronunciation in the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ɪnˈdɛmnɪfaɪ/. The "m" and "n" sounds are both nasals, meaning they sound the same but the "m" is formed with the lips closed and the "n" with the lips open. The "-ify" ending comes from the Latin verb suffix "-ificare," meaning "to make" or "to cause to be." Therefore, "indemnify" means to make someone whole again by reimbursing them for damages or losses.
Indemnify is a verb that refers to the act of compensating or protecting someone against a loss, damage, or liability incurred by them or another party. It involves providing financial security, reimbursement, or releasing from legal responsibility for any potential harm or loss.
When someone indemnifies another individual or entity, they essentially promise to cover any costs or damages that may arise due to a specific event or action. This could include circumstances such as accidents, legal claims, or contractual breaches. The indemnifying party may assume responsibility for costs related to legal proceedings, property damage, injury, or financial liabilities incurred by the indemnified party.
Indemnify often involves the provision of insurance, contracts, or agreements to ensure that individuals or organizations are protected against potential risks. For instance, an insurance policy can indemnify an individual against financial loss resulting from theft or accidents. In a legal context, indemnity clauses in contracts can stipulate that one party will indemnify the other in the event of a breach or violation.
Overall, the concept of indemnification seeks to provide a degree of security and reassurance by mitigating potential losses or liabilities. By indemnifying someone, individuals or organizations can protect themselves or others from the financial consequences of unexpected events or actions.
To secure against loss, damage, or punishment; to make good; to compensate.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word indemnify originated from Latin, specifically from the Latin word indemnus, which means unhurt or undamaged. It is a combination of two Latin elements: in, meaning not, and damnum, meaning damage or loss. Over time, the term evolved into the Old French word indemne before being borrowed into English and becoming indemnify.