pay

Reading level: easy

Estimated CEFR level: A1 — Beginner

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun something that remunerates
  2. verb give money, usually in exchange for goods or services
  3. verb convey, as of a compliment, regards, attention, etc.; bestow

Etymology

From Middle English payen, from Old French paiier (“pay”), from Medieval Latin pācāre (“to settle, satisfy”) from Latin pācāre (“to pacify”). In this sense, displaced native Old English ġield (“pay”) and ġieldan (“to pay”), whence Modern English yield.

In classic literature

Synonyms

wage, earnings, remuneration, salary

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