Warranty Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/wəˈtændi/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A written guarantee or assurance that a product or service will meet certain standards or requirements for a specified period of time, providing the buyer with protection and confidence in their purchase.

Examples

• The company offers a one-year warranty on all its electronic devices.
• The car manufacturer extended the warranty on certain models to two years.

Synonyms

• Guarantee
• Warranty

Antonyms

• Risk
• Hazard

Etymology

The term “warranty” comes from the Old French “warrant,” meaning “to promise” or “to guarantee.” It has been in use since the 14th century, originally referring to a formal promise to stand behind a product or service.

Usage Notes

When offering a warranty, companies typically specify the terms and conditions, including the length of the warranty period, the scope of coverage, and any limitations or exclusions. It is essential to carefully read and understand the warranty agreement before purchasing a product or service.

Additional Information

A warranty provides consumers with peace of mind, as they can often return or repair faulty products or services without incurring additional costs. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. In turn, companies offering warranties may experience improved brand reputation and increased sales.

Cultural References

In the 1960s, the term “warranty” gained popularity due to the introduction of the “warranty” section in consumer contracts. This led to increased awareness and discussion about the importance of warranties in consumer transactions.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Warranty period” is a common phrase used to describe the duration of a warranty.

Related Words or Phrases

Guarantee, Assurance, Warranty

Collocations

Frequency of Use

The term “warranty” is frequently used in business transactions, particularly in industries where consumer confidence is crucial, such as electronics and automotive manufacturing.

Common Misspellings

Warrenty, Warrnty, Warrentee