Definition

Describing something that must be paid back, usually referring to money that is borrowed and needs to be returned.

Example

The loan is repayable over a period of five years.

Conversation

Have you thought about the loan we discussed last week?

Yeah, I did some research on it.

I heard it's repayable over a few years, which is good.

That sounds manageable; I think I might go for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Repayable → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "pay" (from Old French *paier*, meaning to pay). The suffix "-able" (meaning capable of) indicates that something can be done. Thus, "repayable" means capable of being paid back again.

Memory Tip

Think of 'paying again' ('re-') and that something is 'capable of' being paid back ('-able'). This helps you remember that 'repayable' refers to something that can be paid back.

Visually Confused Words