Which term is best defined as a deposit to the seller that shows intention of completing the transaction?

The term best defined as a deposit to the seller that shows intention of completing the transaction is "earnest money." This deposit demonstrates the buyer's serious intent to purchase the property and is typically held in escrow until the transaction is finalized. If the deal goes through, the earnest money is often applied toward the purchase price; if not, it may be forfeited to the seller under certain conditions.