assurance

noun as·sur·ance \ə-ˈshu̇r-ən(t)s\

: the state of being sure or certain about something

: a strong feeling of confidence about yourself or about being right

: a strong and definite statement that something will happen or that something is true

Full Definition of ASSURANCE

: the act or action of assuring: as

a : pledge, guarantee

b : the act of conveying real property; also : the instrument by which it is conveyed

c chiefly British : insurance

: the state of being assured: as

a : security

b : a being certain in the mind <the puritan's assurance of salvation>

c : confidence of mind or manner : easy freedom from self-doubt or uncertainty; also : excessive self-confidence : brashness, presumption

: something that inspires or tends to inspire confidence <gave repeated assurances of goodwill>

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First Known Use of ASSURANCE

14th century

Related to ASSURANCE

Synonyms: confidence, assuredness, certainty, certitude, cocksureness, conviction, doubtlessness, face, positiveness, satisfaction, sureness, surety

Antonyms: doubt, incertitude, nonconfidence, uncertainty

Synonym Discussion of ASSURANCE

confidence, assurance, self-possession, aplomb mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment. confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance <the confidence that comes from long experience>. assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers <handled the cross-examination with complete assurance>. self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers <answered the insolent question with complete self-possession>. aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations <handled the reporters with great aplomb>.