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Definition of bookkeeping

bookkeeping

/ˈbʊkˌkiːpɪŋ/
book · keep · ing
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bookkeeping Lexical Profile

bookkeeping Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The activity or occupation of keeping systematic records of the financial affairs and transactions of a business or organization.

Example

"Accurate bookkeeping is essential for any small business preparing for tax season."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bookkeeping

Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably with 'accounting' in casual speech, 'bookkeeping' specifically refers to the day-to-day recording of financial transactions, whereas 'accounting' encompasses the broader analysis, interpretation, and reporting of those records.

• Nearby Words

bookish
bookishness
bookkeeper
bookkeeping
booklet
booklight
booklike

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 17th century as a compound of 'book' (referring to financial ledgers or account books) and 'keeping', modeled on earlier Dutch 'boekhouden'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bookkeeping. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bookkeeping
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