payback

noun

pay·​back ˈpā-ˌbak How to pronounce payback (audio)
1
2
: a return on an investment equal to the original capital outlay
also : the period of time elapsed before an investment is recouped

Examples of payback in a Sentence

They beat our team last year, so we've got to beat them this year as payback. we are hoping to get payback for the humiliating defeat we suffered at the hands of our rivals during our last matchup
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After aiding Russia in its war against Ukraine, analysts have speculated that Iran is now looking for payback and support from Russia in its own hour of need, although the form this might take is uncertain. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 23 Oct. 2024 The Scarlet Knights avoid Ohio State, Michigan, Oregon and Penn State, perhaps in karmic payback for years of getting bullied by the Big Ten East. Antonio Morales, The Athletic, 21 Aug. 2024 All bonuses or First Bet Reset paybacks will be rewarded in bonus bets that must be used within seven (7) days of receipt. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 Aim For Quick Wins Alongside an incremental approach to ambitious compliance goals, identifying and achieving quick wins can demonstrate an immediate payback. Florent Bouguin, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for payback 

Word History

First Known Use

1718, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of payback was in 1718

Dictionary Entries Near payback

Cite this Entry

“Payback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/payback. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on payback

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!