Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/əˈkwɪtəns/

Definitions

• A document acknowledging the receipt of payment or the discharge of a debt.
• The act of acquitting or being acquitted; release from a debt or obligation.

Usage Examples

• Upon full payment, he received an acquittance from the lender.
• The acquittance served as proof that the obligation had been fulfilled.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "acquit," meaning "to free," combined with the suffix "-ance," indicating an action or state.

Synonyms

• Receipt
• Discharge
• Release
• Clearance

Antonyms

• Debt
• Obligation
• Liability
• Charge

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary based on regional accents, particularly in legal contexts.

Historical Usage

The term has been used in legal and financial contexts since the 14th century to denote acknowledgment of receipt.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, an acquittance serves as important documentation for financial transactions and obligations.

More Information

Understanding "acquittance" is essential in legal and financial discussions, as it represents confirmation of settled debts.