accounting Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a convincing explanation that reveals basic causes
    • he was unable to give a clear accounting for his actions
  2. noun a system that provides quantitative information about finances
  3. noun the occupation of maintaining and auditing records and preparing financial reports for a business
    accountancy.
  4. noun a bookkeeper's chronological list of related debits and credits of a business; forms part of a ledger of accounts
    accounting system; method of accounting.
  5. noun a statement of recent transactions and the resulting balance
    account; account statement.
    • they send me an accounting every month
  6. verb be the sole or primary factor in the existence, acquisition, supply, or disposal of something
    account.
    • Passing grades account for half of the grades given in this exam
  7. verb keep an account of
    account; calculate.
  8. verb to give an account or representation of in words
    report; account; describe.
    • Discreet Italian police described it in a manner typically continental
  9. verb furnish a justifying analysis or explanation
    account; answer for.
    • I can't account for the missing money

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