Repayment

/rɪˈpeɪmənt/ noun

Definition

The action of paying back money that was borrowed or owed.

Etymology

From Old French 'repaiement', combining 're-' (again) and 'payer' (to pay) from Latin 'pacare' (to pacify). The concept reflects the social contract that debt creates temporary imbalance requiring restoration.

Kelly Says

The psychology of repayment varies dramatically across cultures—some societies view debt as shameful while others see it as a normal tool for opportunity. The word itself suggests that payment creates peace, literally 'pacifying' relationships.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.