Wage

/weɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A fixed regular payment, typically paid on a daily or weekly basis, made by an employer to an employee, especially to workers in manual or unskilled jobs.

The workers earned a wage that allowed them to support their families.

The amount of money earned for work done, often expressed as an hourly rate.

Her hourly wage increased after she completed her training.

Compensation or payment received for services rendered.

The minimum wage has been a topic of debate among lawmakers.

verb

To carry on or engage in a campaign, contest, or conflict.

They decided to wage a campaign against the proposed law.

To conduct or carry out (a war, battle, etc.).

The forces waged war for several years before reaching a ceasefire.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old North French 'wagier', related to 'gage', meaning to pledge.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wage war

to engage in conflict or struggle, especially in a military context.

minimum wage

the lowest legal payment that can be made to workers.

wage increase

an increase in the amount of money paid to an employee.

Related Words

salary

A fixed regular payment, typically paid monthly or biweekly.

remuneration

Compensation or payment received for services.

Slang Meanings

Cheddar

I need to make some cheddar to pay my bills.

Dough

He's bringing home the dough with his new job.