The term 'down payment' refers to an initial payment made when purchasing a product or service. This payment is usually a percentage of the total cost and is often required to secure the purchase. The two crossword solutions for this term are 'DEPOSIT' and 'EARNEST'. A DEPOSIT is a sum of money given as security or to show good faith when entering into a contract. EARNEST is a synonym for DEPOSIT, and is used to refer to a payment made as a sign of sincerity or seriousness.