Webster's English Dictionary

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underwrite

un.der.write \'*n-d*(r)-.ri-t, .*n-d*(r)-'\ vt 1: to write under or at the 
   end of something else  2: to set one's name to (an insurance policy) for 
   the purpose of thereby b ecoming answerable for a designated loss or damage 
   on consideration of receiving a premium percent : insure on life or 
   property; also : to assume (a sum or risk) by way of insurance 3: to 
   subscribe to : agree to  4a: to agree to purchase (a security issue) usu. 
   on a fixed date at a fixe d price with a view to public distribution 4b: to 
   guarantee financial support of  : to carry on the business of an 
   underwriter