repay
Meaning
To pay back money that you have borrowed from someone.
To do or give something to someone in return for something they have done for you.
Structure
Usage
I need to repay the loan within five years.
How can I ever repay you for your kindness?
The company used its profits to repay its investors.
Etymology
The word "repay" is a straightforward combination of the Latin-derived prefix "re-" and the verb "pay". The core concept of "pay" originates from the Latin verb 'pacare', meaning to pacify or appease, reflecting the idea that settling a debt brings satisfaction and peace. The prefix "re-", meaning "back" or "again", was attached in Middle English to specifically denote the act of returning what is owed. Thus, the literal logic of "pay back" evolved seamlessly into the modern abstract meanings of returning money or reciprocating a favor.
Analysis
- re: A prefix of Latin origin meaning "again" or "back". It functions as a modifier indicating repetition or return. - pay: A verb of Old French and ultimately Latin origin (from 'pacare' meaning "to pacify, satisfy"). It functions as the core root meaning to give money owed.