WRITE CHECK Meaning and
Definition
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"Write a check" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that refers to the action of issuing or creating a negotiable instrument, known as a check. In financial terms, a check is a written document that authorizes the transfer of a specific amount of money from one bank account to another. The act of writing a check involves filling in necessary details on a designated form provided by a bank or financial institution.
To write a check, an individual must typically enter the recipient's name or the payee on the "pay to the order of" line. They then specify the amount to be transferred both numerically and in words in the designated spaces. Additionally, the individual must date the check and sign it, providing their authorized signature as proof of consent and authenticity.
Once a check is written and signed, it essentially serves as an instruction to the bank where the issuer holds the account. When deposited or cashed, funds are transferred from the issuer's account to that of the payee listed on the check. Checks are widely accepted as a secure and universally recognized form of payment, particularly for larger transactions or when other alternatives like cash or electronic transfers may not be feasible or convenient.
It is important to note that writing a check requires sufficient funds in the issuer's account to cover the specified amount. Otherwise, the check may be returned as "insufficient funds" or lead to potential legal consequences for the issuer.
Etymology of WRITE CHECK
The word "write check" consists of two parts: "write" and "check".
- "Write": This word comes from the Old English word "writan", which meant "to score, outline, draw, or write". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "writen" with a similar meaning. The word ultimately traces back to the Proto-Germanic root "writanan", which means "to tear, scratch, or carve".
- "Check": The word "check" has a more complex etymology. It originated from the Old French word "eschequier", which referred to a chessboard or a game of chess. This word came from the Late Latin word "scaccus" or "scacchus", derived from the Arabic word "shah", meaning "king". chess, players would say "check" to indicate a direct threat to their opponent's king.
