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Indenture Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indenture

[ɪnˈdɛn.tʃər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal agreement

An indenture is a formal legal agreement, contract, or document specifying the terms of a bond or real estate transaction. It typically outlines the obligations and rights of both parties involved in the agreement. Historically, indentures were also used to bind apprentices to artisans for a specific period.

Synonyms

agreement, bond, contract, deed.

Examples of usage

  • The indenture specified the conditions of the loan.
  • He signed an indenture to work as an apprentice for five years.
  • The company defaulted on its indenture agreement with bondholders.
Context #2 | Verb

to bind legally

To indenture means to bind someone by contract or formal agreement, particularly in the context of servitude or apprenticeship. This involves a legal obligation on the part of the indentured person to work under specific terms.

Synonyms

bind, contract, engage, obligate.

Examples of usage

  • They decided to indenture the young craftsman to a master.
  • The school plans to indenture students for internships.
  • Historically, many immigrants were indentured to pay off their passage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Indentured servitude was common in the 17th to 19th centuries, particularly in North America, as a means for laborers to pay for passage to the New World.
  • Many immigrants entered into indentured contracts, agreeing to work for a set term in exchange for their journey and basic needs.

Legal Significance

  • Indentures are still used today in various legal contexts, particularly in real estate and business partnerships, signifying a binding agreement.
  • Modern indentures can encompass debt instruments, specifying the terms between borrowers and lenders.

Cultural References

  • The concept of indentured servitude has been depicted in literature and film, symbolizing both opportunity and exploitation in a new land.
  • Fictional stories often explore the life and struggles of indentured servants, showcasing the personal sacrifices involved in their contracts.

Comparative Practices

  • Similar to apprenticeships today, where individuals learn a trade while working under a master, historically, indentured contracts provided skill development.
  • Many people often confuse indentured servitude with slavery; however, indentured labor was typically bound for a fixed period and often included some rights.

Origin of 'indenture'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'indenture' comes from the Old French 'endenter', meaning to indent or notch, referring to the way documents were traditionally crafted.
  • In medieval times, contracts were made on parchment, and the edges were notched to prove authenticity, leading to the term 'indenture'.

The word 'indenture' originates from the late Middle English term 'endenture,' which meant 'a written agreement.' It derives from the Old French word 'endenture,' meaning 'to indent or notch,' which is a reference to the notches cut on the edges of the document. This practice was used to create multiple copies of an agreement, ensuring that they could be matched together to confirm authenticity. The use of indentures was prevalent in the medieval and early modern periods, especially concerning servitude and apprenticeship, where young individuals were bound contractually to a master craftsman. The evolution of the word reflects the historical practice of documented agreements that laid out terms of service and rights, marking significant changes in contractual relationships in society.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,234, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.