Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈdɛtɪd/

Definitions

• Owing gratitude or favor to someone for a benefit or help received.
• Owing money or obligations to someone; financially obligated.
• In debt or owing something (e.g., in a moral or emotional sense).

Usage Examples

• He felt deeply indebted to his mentor for guiding him through difficult times.
• The nation was financially indebted to foreign lenders for many years.
• She was indebted to her friends for their support during her illness.

Etymology

The word "indebted" originates from the late Middle English word "indebted," derived from the Old French "endette" meaning "to owe money," from the Latin "debitum," meaning "something owed." The prefix "in-" implies "into," while "debt" refers to an obligation or something owed.

Synonyms

• Owing
• Obligated
• Grateful
• Indebted to
• In debt

Antonyms

• Paid
• Repayed
• Clear
• Independent

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Regional variations in the pronunciation of "indebted" occur primarily due to dialect differences and may involve subtle shifts in vowel sounds or stress, particularly in formal or colloquial settings.

Historical Usage

The use of "indebted" has evolved over time. Initially, it referred specifically to financial obligations, but over time, it expanded to include emotional or moral indebtedness, reflecting deeper cultural values about gratitude and reciprocation in various societies.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, being indebted goes beyond financial matters. It also includes a moral and social aspect, where one may feel a deep sense of obligation to reciprocate acts of kindness, charity, or assistance in various forms.

More Information

The term "indebted" is used widely across financial, social, and emotional contexts. While it originally referred to owing money, today it also refers to a sense of owing gratitude or favors. In financial contexts, being indebted refers to owing money, while in social contexts, it often refers to being grateful for support or assistance received. The concept of indebtedness has significant cultural implications, and the term continues to be relevant in modern discussions around financial debt, social relationships, and moral obligations.