Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
escrow
noun
/ ES-kroh /
Medium
Meaning
Money or an asset held by a neutral third party on behalf of two others until a specified condition is fulfilled.
Origin / Etymology
From Old French 'escroue' (a scrap of parchment or scroll), later a deed held in trust.
Synonyms
trust deposit
surety
safekeeping
guarantee fund
Antonyms
forfeiture
release
disbursement
withdrawal
Example Sentence
"The government mandated that home buyers' payments be routed through an escrow account to prevent developers from diverting funds."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Useful in GS Paper 3 answers on financial regulation, RERA reforms in the real estate sector, and mechanisms to protect consumers. Also relevant to international relations when discussing frozen assets and sanctioned funds held in escrow.
Relevant Subjects
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