Definition

Something that needs to be paid or is due for payment.

Example

The invoice is payable within 30 days.

Conversation

Have you checked if the bill is payable today?

Yeah, I just looked, and it's due by the end of the day.

I thought we had more time before it was payable.

I know, right? It sneaks up on you sometimes!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

Money that is owed to someone, usually a creditor or supplier. It often refers to amounts that need to be paid in the future.

Example

The company has many payables that need to be settled by the end of the month.

Conversation

Have you ever had to deal with payable accounts for your business?

Yeah, I manage our payable accounts every month.

It seems like it could get complicated with all the bills coming in.

Root Explanation

Payable → It is formed from "pay" (from Old French *paier*, meaning to pay or satisfy) and "-able" (meaning capable of or suitable for). The word "payable" means capable of being paid or due to be paid.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'capable of being paid' — 'pay' means to satisfy a debt, and '-able' indicates that it can happen.

Visually Confused Words