1. to assume financial responsibility for something, especially by agreeing to pay for losses or damages
Usage: finance; insurance
2. to support or guarantee the success of something by providing funding
3. to sign one’s name at the bottom of a document
Usage: formal; legal

Examples

• The bank underwrites the mortgage loan for qualified buyers.
• Our company underwrites insurance policies for small businesses.
• The foundation underwrites educational programs in rural areas.
• She underwrites the risk by carefully reviewing each application.
• The investment firm underwrites the new stock offering.
• He underwrites the contract with his signature.
• The government underwrites student loans to make college affordable.