warranty
The laptop comes with a two-year warranty.
The manufacturer promises to repair or replace the laptop if it breaks within two years.
A written guarantee promising to repair or replace a product if it fails within a specified period.
The warranty covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage.
The manufacturer will fix defects in materials/workmanship, but not damage from drops or spills.
Check the warranty terms before purchasing.
Review the conditions under which the guarantee applies.
Often confused with 'guarantee'—a warranty is typically time-limited and product-specific.
A promise or assurance that something is of specified quality, content, benefit, etc.
The company gave a warranty of 100% customer satisfaction.
The company promised all customers would be happy with their purchase.
Less common than the product-specific meaning.
Collocations
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Check warranty scope
Verify what the warranty covers (e.g., parts/labor) and excludes (e.g., water damage). Some warranties require registration.
Gold Rule
Warranty vs. Guarantee
A warranty is usually time-limited and product-specific. A guarantee is broader (e.g., 'money-back guarantee') and may not require a timeframe.
Word Origin
Middle English (in the sense 'protection, security'): from Old North French *warantie, variant of Old French garantie 'protection', from garantir 'protect', of Germanic origin.
Usage Notes
In legal contexts, warranties are often categorized as 'express' (explicitly stated) or 'implied' (legally assumed, e.g., that a product is safe to use). Always read warranty fine print carefully.