Money paid in advance as part of a contract, especially in real estate transactions, to show commitment.
I paid a deposit when I applied for the property.
If you cancel after paying earnest money, it may not be refunded.
deposit; earnest money
Standard kanji spelling.
Variant with okurigana; also common.
Compound of 手 (hand) and 付 (attach), referring to money handed over as a pledge.