promissory note

noun

1. a written promise to pay a specified sum of money to a designated person, or to the bearer of the note, at a fixed time or on demand.
2. a written promise to do or provide something, usually presented as a gift and claimable when or however the recipient chooses.

promissory note

noun

1. commerce a document, usually negotiable, containing a signed promise to pay a stated sum of money to a specified person at a designated date or on demand Also callednotenote of hand

Word History and Origins

Origin of promissory note¹

First recorded in 1700–10

Example Sentences

In the case of federal student loans, a borrower signs a promissory note agreeing to pay back the government and, ultimately, the taxpayers.

From No Straight News

An unpaid promissory note is an executory contract, when paid it becomes an executed one.

From Project Gutenberg

If she will not, and if the promissory note should fall in my way, my revenge will doubtless take total possession of me.

From Project Gutenberg

It is thus "a human document" of considerable value, as well as a promissory note of future performance.

From Project Gutenberg

In that event Mrs. Arnold's promissory note to Rabofsky would be worth no more than the value of the securities he held.

From Project Gutenberg

In the case at bar, the defendant has given his promissory note to pay the plaintiff a sum of money on or before a certain day.

From Project Gutenberg