liquidate

[ lik-wi-deyt ]

verb (used with object)

, liq·ui·dat·ed, liq·ui·dat·ing.

1. to settle or pay (a debt):

   to liquidate a claim.

   Synonyms: cancel, erase, clear, discharge

2. to reduce (accounts) to order; determine the amount of (indebtedness or damages).
3. to convert (inventory, securities, or other assets) into cash.
4. to get rid of, especially by killing:

   to liquidate the enemies of the regime.

5. to break up or do away with:

   to liquidate a partnership.

verb (used without object)

, liq·ui·dat·ed, liq·ui·dat·ing.

1. to liquidate debts or accounts; go into liquidation.

liquidate

/ ˈlɪkwɪˌdeɪt /

verb

1. 1. to settle or pay off (a debt, claim, etc)
   2. to determine by litigation or agreement the amount of (damages, indebtedness, etc)
2. 1. to terminate the operations of (a commercial firm, bankrupt estate, etc) by assessment of liabilities and appropriation of assets for their settlement
   2. (of a commercial firm, etc) to terminate operations in this manner
3. tr to convert (assets) into cash
4. tr to eliminate or kill

Other Words From

• non·liqui·dating adjective
• pre·liqui·date verb (used with object) preliquidated preliquidating
• re·liqui·date verb reliquidated reliquidating
• un·liqui·dated adjective
• un·liqui·dating adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of liquidate¹

1565–75; 1920–25 liquidate fordef 4; < Late Latin liquidātus, past participle of liquidāre to melt, make clear. See liquid, -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Cohn thinks people should sit tight before liquidating all their assets — especially if selling off their home and stocks could lead to tax penalties.

From Salon

The more likely scenario is that the park’s assets and land, which were recently valued around $21 million, will be liquidated to pay back his debtors.

From Los Angeles Times

The radio host conspiracist was ordered to liquidate that platform to pay off part of a massive defamation judgment against him for smearing the families of Sandy Hook school shooting victims repeatedly.

From Salon

As quoted in the lawsuit, a party is entitled to $10,000 in liquidated damages for each separate breach by the other party.

From Los Angeles Times

It is being liquidated under Chapter 11 of the bankruptcy code typically used by companies seeking to restructure and remain in business.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abolish
• annul
• cancel
• eliminate
• exterminate
• get rid of
• wipe out