ensure

/ɛnˈʃʌr/

/ɛnˈʃɔ/

Other forms: ensuring; ensured; ensures

When you ensure that something will happen, you guarantee it. All that homework will ensure that you have no time for fun this afternoon!

Ensure comes from the Old French en- "make" plus seur "sure," and that is exactly what it means today - "to make sure or certain, to guarantee." If you ensure success or someone's safety, you are guaranteeing it. Make sure you can really come through with something before you ensure it!

Definitions of ensure

1. verb

   make certain of
   “This nest egg will ensure a nice retirement for us”

   synonyms: assure, guarantee, insure, secure

   guarantee, vouch

   give surety or assume responsibility

   types:

   doom

   make certain of the failure or destruction of

   make

   assure the success of
2. verb

   be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something
   synonyms: ascertain, assure, check, control, insure, see, see to it

   check, check off, mark, mark off, tick, tick off

   put a check mark on or near or next to

   check

   verify by consulting a source or authority

   ascertain, check, determine, find out, learn, see, watch

   find out, learn, or determine with certainty, usually by making an inquiry or other effort

   control, verify

   check or regulate (a scientific experiment) by conducting a parallel experiment or comparing with another standard

   types:

   proof, proofread

   read for errors

   control

   verify by using a duplicate register for comparison

   double-check

   check once more to be absolutely sure

   cross-check

   check out conflicting sources; crosscheck facts, for example

   cinch

   make sure of

   card

   ask someone for identification to determine whether he or she is old enough to consume liquor

   spot-check

   pick out random samples for examination in order to ensure high quality

   cover

   maintain a check on; especially by patrolling

   type of:

   verify

   confirm the truth of