noun

vesting

/ˈvestɪŋ/ · say it: VES·ting

earning full rights to benefits or shares over time

In more detail

1. (noun) the process of earning the right to receive benefits such as pension payments or stock options, usually over a period of time

2. (noun) the transfer of ownership or control of property to someone

Examples

1. The company offers a four-year vesting schedule for its stock options.
2. After vesting of the estate, the property became legally his.

How to use vesting

Vesting is predominantly used in employment and financial contexts, particularly regarding pensions, stock options, and retirement benefits. It refers to the gradual or conditional earning of rights or ownership, typically governed by a timeline or specific conditions. The term is also used in legal contexts for the transfer of property rights.

Common phrases

vesting period
vesting schedule
vesting rights
fully vested
cliff vesting
stock option vesting

Synonyms

accrual · acquisition · earning · conferral · bestowal

Opposites

forfeiture · loss · deprivation

Word family

vest (verb) · vested (adjective) · vested interest

A common mistake

Learners often confuse vesting with simply receiving or obtaining benefits, but vesting specifically emphasizes the time-based or condition-based earning process rather than immediate acquisition.

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