Definitions

payback

[pey-bak] / ˈpeɪˌbæk /

NOUN

return

Synonyms

STRONGEST

compensation reimbursement

STRONG

accrual accruement gain gate income interest proceeds profit reciprocation recompense reparation repayment reward take yield

Antonyms

STRONG

debt loss penalty

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In her case, the Crown accountant agreed a payback amount of £66.36.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Party leaders declared it payback and boasted about their new fighting spirit.

From Salon • May 1, 2026

“There is some payback in our culture,” he added.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

That can make the payback period for a used EV only one or two years.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Instant payback from the universe for going through Guillermo’s papers?

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson