depository

noun

de·​pos·​i·​to·​ry di-ˈpä-zə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce depository (audio)
plural depositories
1
: depositary sense 1
a depository of ancient tradition
2
: a place where something is placed or deposited especially for safekeeping
a book depository
a depository for government funds

Examples of depository in a Sentence

The bank is used as a depository for government funds.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To qualify, the gold in the IRA must meet the IRS’ purity standards, and the gold must be held by an authorized storage facility, such as an approved depository. Kat Tretina, Sacramento Bee, 26 Feb. 2025 The depository must meet stringent security and reporting standards to ensure the safety and proper documentation of the gold. Jessica Ledingham, J.d., Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 Fort Knox received the first gold in its depository in 1937. Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025 Only thrice since the depository was established have outsiders entered the vault. Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for depository

Word History

Etymology

see deposit entry 1

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of depository was in 1656

Cite this Entry

“Depository.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/depository. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

depository

noun
de·​pos·​i·​to·​ry di-ˈpäz-ə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce depository (audio)
-ˌtȯr-
plural depositories
: a place where something is deposited especially for safekeeping

Legal Definition

depository

noun
de·​pos·​i·​to·​ry di-ˈpä-zə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce depository (audio)
plural depositories
1
: a place where something is deposited especially for safekeeping
night depository
specifically : a bank chosen for the depositing of government funds
2

More from Merriam-Webster on depository

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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