claim

Definition

noun

an assertion of a legal right
a document used in the County Court to start a legal action
Usage claim for personal injuries
a claim where the claimant claims damages for physical or mental impairment caused by somebody else’s actions
a statement that someone has a right to property held by another person
a request for money that you believe you should have
Examples an insurance claim • a wage claim
Usage no claims bonus
reduction of premiums to be paid because no claims have been made against the insurance policy

Usage to put in a claim
to ask the insurance company officially to pay for damage or loss

Example She put in a claim for repairs to the car.

Usage to settle a claim
to agree to pay what is asked for

verb

to state a grievance in court
to ask for money
Examples He claimed £100,000 damages against the cleaning firm. • She claimed for repairs to the car against her insurance.
to say that you have a right to property held by someone else
Examples He is claiming possession of the house. • No one claimed the umbrella found in my office.
to state that something is a fact
Examples He claims he never received the goods. • She claims that the shares are her property.
to attack someone in prison (slang)
to arrest someone (slang)