Reward
/rɪˈwɔːrd/noun
A thing given in recognition of one's services, efforts, or achievements.
Did you know?The word 'reward' traces back to a time when it was deeply tied to the act of 'turning back' or 'paying back' a debt, reflecting a complex relationship with obligation and recompense.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wer-
“to turn, bend, or twist.”
Latin
Latin
rewardare
“to give back, restore.”
Old French
Old French
rewarder
“to give in return or recompense.”
Middle English
Middle English
rewarde
“something given in return for a service or favor.”
Modern English
English
reward
“a benefit or recompense for a good deed or service.”