indentured
|in-den-tured|
🇺🇸
/ɪnˈdɛn.tʃɚd/
🇬🇧
/ɪnˈdɛn.tʃəd/
(indenture)
bound by contract
Etymology
'indenture' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'endenture,' where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'dent' referred to 'tooth' or 'notch,' indicating a notched or indented document.
'endenture' transformed into the modern English word 'indenture,' referring to a legal contract or agreement.
Initially, it meant 'a document with notches or indents,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a formal legal agreement.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
bound by a formal legal agreement, contract, or document, especially as an apprentice or laborer.
The indentured servant worked for seven years to pay off his passage to America.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40