welch
Welch (verb) means to fail to pay a debt or honor a promise, especially a bet. Example: “He welched on the bet and never paid up.”
How to use welch
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo back out of paying money you owe or a promise you made.
Some people avoid this word because of its possible link to the ethnonym "Welsh"; "renege" or "default" are safe, neutral alternatives.
Word forms
welched past tense, welches plural, welches singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ on the bet and never paid up.
Etymology
An alternative spelling of "welsh" (in the sense "to fail to pay a debt"), originally from the ethnic term Welsh — the connection to the Welsh people is unclear and the usage is now considered by many to be offensive in origin, though it survives mainly as a set phrase.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for welch
See all rhymes for welch →Frequently asked questions
What does “welch” mean?
The word “welch” means to fail to pay a debt or honor a promise, especially a bet. In plain terms, to back out of paying money you owe or a promise you made.
How do you pronounce “welch”?
“Welch” is pronounced wehlch (/wɛlt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “welch” in a sentence?
Here is “welch” used in a sentence: “He welched on the bet and never paid up.”
What part of speech is “welch”?
“Welch” is a verb.
Where does the word “welch” come from?
The word “welch” comes from Welsh.
Is “welch” a common word?
“Welch” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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