gjelden

Gjelden is the definite form of the Norwegian noun gjeld, meaning debt or liability. It refers to an obligation to pay money or to fulfill a financial commitment owed to another party, such as a loan, bond, or supplier credit. Gjelden can be held by individuals, private entities, or governments and is a central concept in finance, accounting, and economics.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from Old Norse gjald, with cognates in other Scandinavian languages, including Danish gæld and Swedish skuld. In Norwegian, the definite form gjelden is used to indicate 'the debt' in a given context.

Types and measurement: Personal gjeld includes mortgages, student loans, and consumer credit; corporate gjeld includes bonds and bank loans; public gjeld refers to government borrowings. On balance sheets, gjeld is recorded as a liability and typically accrues interest that must be paid periodically, often with a defined repayment schedule.

Economic significance: Gjelden affects household budgets, corporate investment, and public finance. High debt levels can influence interest rates, credit availability, and economic stability. Debt management, refinancing, and, in some cases, debt relief or restructuring are policy tools used to maintain financial solvency and growth.

See also: debt, liability, credit rating, bankruptcy. Note: The term is specific to Norwegian usage and should be distinguished from other languages' equivalents, such as Danish gæld or Swedish skuld.