1. to agree to pay for or support financially
Usage: business; finance
2. to assume financial responsibility for insurance coverage
Usage: insurance
3. to agree to buy unsold shares of a new stock issue
Usage: finance; securities

Examples

• The bank agreed to underwrite the construction loan.
• Several corporations underwrote the charity event.
• The insurance company will underwrite policies for high-risk drivers.
• Investment firms underwrite new stock offerings.
• The foundation underwrites scholarships for students.
• Major sponsors underwrite the cost of the festival.
• The government underwrote the research project.