reward
reward Lexical Profile
reward Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Something given or received in return or recompense for service, merit, hardship, or achievement.
"The promotion was a well-deserved reward for her years of dedication to the company."
A sum of money offered publicly for the detection or capture of a criminal, or for the recovery of lost or stolen property.
"The family offered a generous financial reward for the safe return of their missing dog."
A positive stimulus, such as food, introduced in behavioral psychology to reinforce a desired response or habit.
"During the experiment, the laboratory mice received a food pellet as a reward each time they navigated the maze."
• verb
To give something to someone in recognition of their services, efforts, or achievements.
"The university decided to reward the top students with full scholarships for the upcoming semester."
To show the value of or provide a worthwhile return for (an action, quality, or effort).
"The steep climb up the mountain trail will reward hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the valley."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Reward' is often confused with 'award': a reward is typically given in return for good behavior, hard work, or a specific service (such as returning lost property), whereas an award is an official prize conferred by a panel of judges to recognize excellence or victory.
• Rhymes for reward
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 14th century from Anglo-Norman 'rewarder' (a northern variant of Old French 'regarder', meaning 'to look at, regard, or heed'), combining the intensive prefix 're-' with the Germanic root 'warder' ('to guard or watch over').