Defray Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defray

[dษชหˆfreษช ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

financial context

To defray means to provide money to pay a cost or expense. It is often used in relation to expenses related to events, projects, or obligations. The term implies that a portion of the costs will be covered or reimbursed.

Synonyms

cover, pay, reimburse, settle.

Examples of usage

  • The company will defray the costs of travel for employees.
  • Grants are available to defray the expenses of research.
  • She saved money to defray the costs of her education.

Translations

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Origin of 'defray'

The word 'defray' originated from the Middle French term 'defrayer,' which meant 'to pay or discharge.' This term came from the Old French 'desfraier,' where 'des-' indicated a sense of removal or negation and 'fraier' meant to pay. The etymology can be traced further back to the Vulgar Latin 'disfractare', which combines 'dis-' (apart) with 'fractare' (to break, to yield). Initially, the term was used in a more general sense related to paying debts or obligations. Over time, it has evolved to specifically refer to covering costs or expenses, often within a business or financial context. The use of the term has persisted throughout history, especially within legal and financial documents.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,794, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.