Definition

The amount of money or benefit received as a result of a previous action or investment.

Example

The payback from the project was much higher than we expected.

Conversation

Did you hear about Sam's plan for payback on that bet he lost?

Yeah, I can't believe he's going to prank Mark like that!

I think it's a bit extreme, but it should be funny to watch.

Definitely! Just make sure he doesn't get in too much trouble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Payback → It is formed from "pay" (from Old French *paier*, meaning to settle a debt or give money) and "back" (meaning in return or to the original place). The word "payback" refers to the act of returning what is owed or giving something back, often in a context of repayment or retribution.

Memory Tip

Think of settling a debt ('pay') and returning it ('back') — that's how payback means to give back what is owed.

Visually Confused Words