Meaning & Definition of Pay in English

1. Something that remunerates

• "Wages were paid by check"

• "He wasted his pay on drink"

• "They saved a quarter of all their earnings"

1. Give money, usually in exchange for goods or services

• "I paid four dollars for this sandwich"

• "Pay the waitress, please"

2. Convey, as of a compliment, regards, attention, etc.

• Bestow

• "Don't pay him any mind"

• "Give the orders"

• "Give him my best regards"

• "Pay attention"

3. Cancel or discharge a debt

• "Pay up, please!"

4. Bring in

• "Interest-bearing accounts"

• "How much does this savings certificate pay annually?"

5. Do or give something to somebody in return

• "Does she pay you for the work you are doing?"

6. Dedicate

• "Give thought to"

• "Give priority to"

• "Pay attention to"

7. Be worth it

• "It pays to go through the trouble"

8. Render

• "Pay a visit"

• "Pay a call"

9. Bear (a cost or penalty), in recompense for some action

• "You'll pay for this!"

• "She had to pay the penalty for speaking out rashly"

• "You'll pay for this opinion later"

10. Make a compensation for

• "A favor that cannot be paid back"

11. Discharge or settle

• "Pay a debt"

• "Pay an obligation"