Reward Meaning and Definition
Reward
Pronunciation
/rɪˈwɔrd/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Something given or received in return for an action, service, or achievement, typically as a form of appreciation or incentive.
Examples
- The company offered a reward to anyone who could solve the puzzle.
- She received a reward for her excellent performance.
Synonyms
- Prize
- Incentive
- Bounty
Antonyms
- Punishment
- Penalty
Additional Information
Rewards can take many forms, such as financial incentives, recognition, or privileges. They are often used to motivate individuals or teams to achieve specific goals or behaviors. In some cases, rewards can be tangible, such as a trophy or certificate, while in others, they may be intangible, such as praise or acknowledgment.
Rewards can also be used to encourage positive behavior, such as volunteering or donating to charity. In these cases, the reward may not be immediate, but rather a sense of fulfillment or satisfaction.
Etymology
The word “reward” has its roots in Old English and Old Norse, with the prefix “re-” meaning “again” or “back” and the root “ward” meaning “guard” or “protection”. The original meaning of the word was “to guard” or “to protect”, but it later evolved to mean “to give in return” or “to recompense”.
Usage Notes
Rewards are often used in business and education to motivate individuals or teams. They can also be used in personal relationships, such as offering a reward to a child for completing a task.
Cultural References
Rewards have been depicted in popular culture, such as in films and literature, as a means of motivating characters to achieve their goals.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Reward someone’s efforts
- Reward with praise
Related Words or Phrases
- incentivize
- motivate
- bonus
Collocations
- reward for a job well done
- reward someone with a prize
Frequency of Use
The word “reward” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in business and education.
Common Misspellings
- rewerd
- rewod