from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Insure \In"sure\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Insured}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Insuring}.] [OE. ensuren, prob. for assuren, by a change of
prefix. See 1st {In-}, and {Sure}, and cf. {Assure},
{Ensure}.] [Written also {ensure}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. To make sure or secure; as, to insure safety to any one.
[1913 Webster]
2. Specifically, to secure against a loss by a contingent
event, on certain stipulated conditions, or at a given
rate or premium; to give or to take an insurance on or
for; as, a merchant insures his ship or its cargo, or
both, against the dangers of the sea; goods and buildings
are insured against fire or water; persons are insured
against sickness, accident, or death; and sometimes
hazardous debts are insured.
[1913 Webster]