payback

noun

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

Synonyms of payback

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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.
Instead, the legislation will accelerate the payback period for studios that elect to refund their credits for cash. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 29 Aug. 2026 The legislation also addresses concerns about the payback period for studios that have elected to refund credits for cash. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026 The Sailors knew playing Edison represented an opportunity for payback and to open the Sunset League on a positive note. — Dan Albano, Oc Register, 27 Aug. 2026 Daniel Weiner told jurors that the rapper, whose legal name is Durk Devontay Banks, wanted payback for the shooting death of Dayvon Bennett, known as King Von. — Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for payback

Word History

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of payback was in 1935

Phrases Containing payback

Rhymes for payback

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Browse Nearby Words

pay a visit to
payback
payback time
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Cite this Entry

“Payback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/payback. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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