warranty
WAWR-uhn-tee
/ˈwɒrənti/
A written guarantee, issued to the purchaser of an article by its manufacturer, promising to repair or replace it if necessary within a specified period of time.
A legal contract that protects the consumer against defects for a set duration.
The story behind the word. It shares the same origin as the word 'guarantee.' In Old French, the 'w' and 'g' were often interchangeable (like 'warden' and 'guardian'). It literally means a protection or defense for the buyer.
Word relationships
- guarantee: A guarantee is a general promise of quality; a warranty is a specific legal document.
Commonly confused with
- insurance: Warranty covers product failure; insurance covers accidental damage or theft.
Word family
- warrant (verb): to justify or guarantee
Collocations
- extended warranty
- under warranty
- void the warranty
- limited warranty
Example sentences
- "The laptop comes with a one-year limited warranty covering parts and labor." Electronics purchase.
Memory hook
A WARRANTY is a WALL of protection for your money. Repair promise.
When not to use
Do not use interchangeably with 'guarantee' in a casual sense; a warranty is usually a formal, written document.
Fun facts
- The 'Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act' is the federal law that governs consumer product warranties in the United States.
Explore more words
remanufacture, assurance, indemnity, contractual, Indemnify, Contract
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