securities
UK: sɪˈkjʊərɪtiz | US: səˈkjʊrɪtiz
n. financial instruments representing ownership (e.g., stocks) or debt (e.g., bonds) that hold monetary value
n. documents or certificates proving legal ownership of assets
n. measures taken to ensure safety or protection (archaic/legal context)
The word "securities" stems from the Latin securus (se- "free from" + cura "care"), meaning "free from care" or "safe." The suffix "-ities" transforms the adjective "secure" into a noun denoting the state or assets ensuring safety. Initially used in legal contexts for guarantees, its modern financial sense emerged in the 18th century, reflecting assets that "secure" wealth.
Investors diversify their portfolios by holding various securities like stocks and bonds.
The company issued securities to raise capital for expansion.
Government securities are considered low-risk investments.
The vault stores important securities and property deeds.
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing how securities are traded.