noun (n)

• a convincing explanation that reveals basic causes(noun.communication)

  Example:
  He was unable to give a clear accounting for his actions.
  

  source: wordnet30
• a system that provides quantitative information about finances(noun.cognition)

  source: wordnet30
• the occupation of maintaining and auditing records and preparing financial reports for a business(noun.act)

  Synonym:
  accountancy
  

  source: wordnet30
• a bookkeeper's chronological list of related debits and credits of a business; forms part of a ledger of accounts(noun.possession)

  Synonym:
  accounting system, method of accounting
  

  source: wordnet30
• a statement of recent transactions and the resulting balance(noun.possession)

  Example:
  They send me an accounting every month.
  

  Synonym:
  account, account statement
  

  source: wordnet30