claim | klām |
verb [reporting verb]
state or assert that something is the case, typically without providing evidence or proof: [with clause] : he claimed that he came from a wealthy, educated family | [with direct speech] : “I’m entitled to be conceited,” he claimed | [with object] : these sunblocks claim protection factors as high as 34.
• [with object] assert that one has gained or achieved (something): his supporters claimed victory in the presidential elections.
• [with object] formally request or demand; say that one owns or has earned (something): if no one claims the items, they will become government property.
• [with object] make a demand for (money) under the terms of an insurance policy: she could have claimed the cost through her insurance.
• call for (someone’s notice and thought): a most unwelcome event claimed his attention.
• cause the loss of (someone’s life).
noun
1 an assertion of the truth of something, typically one that is disputed or in doubt: [with clause] : he was dogged by the claim that he had CIA links | history belies statesmen’s claims to be in charge of events.
2 a demand or request for something considered one’s due: the court had denied their claims to asylum.
• an application for compensation under the terms of an insurance policy.
• a right or title to something: they have first claim on the assets of the trust.
• (also mining claim) a piece of land allotted to or taken by someone in order to be mined.