The system of lending money to the owner or master of a ship on the security of its cargo, the money being repaid (with maritime interest) only if the goods arrive safe at their destination.
Origin
Late 17th century. Apparently from classical Latin respondent-, respondēns, present participle of respondērerespond + -ia, probably reflecting the meaning ‘to make a return, give a yield’ shown by classical Latin respondēre.
Definition of respondentia in US English:
respondentia
nounˌrɪspɒnˈdɛnʃ(ɪ)ə
The system of lending money to the owner or master of a ship on the security of its cargo, the money being repaid (with maritime interest) only if the goods arrive safe at their destination.
Origin
Late 17th century. Apparently from classical Latin respondent-, respondēns, present participle of respondēre respond + -ia, probably reflecting the meaning ‘to make a return, give a yield’ shown by classical Latin respondēre.