Fidejussion

/ˌfaɪdɪˈdʒʌʃən/ noun

Definition

A legal agreement in which one person pledges themselves or their property as a guarantee for another person's debt or obligation.

Etymology

From Latin 'fideiussio' (a guarantee given in good faith), from 'fideiussor' (guarantor) and 'fidei' (of faith). A key concept in Roman contract law.

Kelly Says

Fidejussion was Rome's version of a personal guarantee—if your friend borrowed money and couldn't pay it back, you could vouch for them with your own life and property on the line, which made debt incredibly serious.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.