Defraying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defraying

[dษชหˆfreษชษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

financial context

Defraying refers to the act of paying a portion of an expense or cost. It typically involves covering costs associated with services or obligations, thereby relieving the burden on the party responsible for the full amount. This term is often used in financial discussions, particularly relating to expenses that might be shared or subsidized, such as educational costs or organizational fees. The ultimate goal of defraying is to ease the financial load.

Synonyms

covering, offsetting, paying, settling.

Examples of usage

  • The organization is defraying costs for the event.
  • Scholarships help in defraying tuition expenses for students.
  • The fundraiser aims at defraying medical expenses for families.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Finance

  • Defraying costs is a common practice in budgeting where expenses are managed to prevent overspending.
  • In project management, funds often need to be defrayed to ensure all parts of a project operate smoothly within budget.
  • Scholarships and grants are forms of financial aid that help defray the costs of education for students.

History

  • The concept of defraying costs can be traced back to ancient trade practices, where merchants covered expenses to transport goods.
  • During the 20th century, government programs emerged to fund public services, defraying costs for the population.
  • In wartime, nations often defray costs related to soldiersโ€™ supplies and equipment through taxation or borrowing.

Literature

  • Classic literature often reflects themes of financial struggles, and characters' attempts to defray their expenses can lead to conflict.
  • In Jane Austen's novels, characters navigate social and familial expectations while defraying the costs of living.
  • Modern authors sometimes explore the idea of defraying costs through personal finance narratives, encouraging readers to manage expenditures.

Legal

  • In legal contexts, defraying costs may refer to the responsibility of one party to cover expenses for another, especially in lawsuits.
  • Contracts often detail who is responsible for defraying specific expenses in business agreements.
  • Court rulings can mandate that one party defrays legal fees of another, ensuring fair access to justice.

Origin of 'defraying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'defrayen', which means to pay off or cover costs.
  • Originated from the Old French term 'desfrayer', combining 'des-' (to remove) and 'frayer' (to make ready or prepare).
  • Has been used in English since the late 14th century, primarily related to financial obligations.

The word 'defray' originates from the Middle English term 'defrayen,' which itself comes from the Old French 'desfrayer,' meaning 'to pay or settle.' The roots can be traced back to the Latin term 'frigere,' which means 'to cool' or 'to break,' metaphorically relating to breaking the burden of costs. Over centuries, the usage of 'defray' evolved, particularly during periods when communal and governmental assistance in covering costs became increasingly common. In the modern lexicon, it is often associated with financial discussions, scholarships, and funds raised for specific purposes.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,551, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.