What is the meaning of accounting?

noun

• A convincing explanation that reveals basic causes.
  • usage: "he was unable to give a clear accounting for his actions"
• A system that provides quantitative information about finances.
• The occupation of maintaining and auditing records and preparing financial reports for a business.
  • synonyms: accountancy
• A bookkeeper's chronological list of related debits and credits of a business; forms part of a ledger of accounts.
  • synonyms: accounting system, method of accounting
• A statement of recent transactions and the resulting balance.
  • usage: "they send me an accounting every month"
  • synonyms: account, account statement

verb

• Be the sole or primary factor in the existence, acquisition, supply, or disposal of something.
  • usage: "Passing grades account for half of the grades given in this exam"
  • synonyms: account
• Keep an account of.
  • synonyms: account, calculate
• To give an account or representation of in words.
  • usage: "Discreet Italian police described it in a manner typically continental"
  • synonyms: report, describe, account
• Furnish a justifying analysis or explanation.
  • usage: "I can't account for the missing money"
  • synonyms: account, answer for