Bounty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bounty

[หˆbaสŠnti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

reward for capturing someone

Bounty is a reward paid by the government or another organization to someone who has captured a criminal or accomplished a great deed. It is often used in the context of wanted criminals or fugitives.

Synonyms

premium, prize, reward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bounty

Typically used to refer to a large financial or material reward given by an organization or government, often for capturing or killing someone or something.

  • The pirate's bounty was substantial
  • There is a bounty on the fugitive's head
reward

Used to describe a general benefit or something given in return for effort, services, or achievement.

  • She received a reward for finding the lost dog
  • Hard work brings its own rewards
prize

Commonly associated with something won in a competition, contest, or lottery. Usually has a positive connotation.

  • He won the first prize in the science fair
  • The lottery prize was worth millions
premium

Often refers to an amount paid for insurance, or can denote something of high quality, exclusive, or more expensive.

  • She paid a higher premium for her car insurance
  • They charge a premium for organic produce

Examples of usage

  • The bounty for the capture of the notorious criminal was set at $1 million.
  • She received a bounty for her heroic actions in saving the passengers of the sinking ship.
Context #2 | Noun

amount of money offered

Bounty can also refer to the amount of money offered as a reward. This can be seen in the context of contests, competitions, or incentives.

Synonyms

incentive, prize, reward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bounty

A large amount of money or resources given by an authority, typically a government, for the capture of someone or to promote a specific action.

  • The government offered a bounty for the capture of the outlaw
  • The forest bounty helped the villagers survive the winter
reward

A benefit or compensation given for a good deed, achievement, or service, typically used more generally and broadly.

  • She received a reward for finding and returning the lost dog
  • The company rewarded its best performers with a bonus
prize

An award given to someone who wins a competition or achieves something notable.

  • He won the first prize in the art contest
  • A Nobel Prize is one of the highest honors in various fields of science and literature
incentive

Something that motivates or encourages someone to take action, often in a workplace or economic context.

  • The company offered a cash incentive to employees who met their targets
  • Tax incentives are often provided to attract new businesses

Examples of usage

  • The company offered a bounty for the best marketing campaign idea.
  • There was a bounty of $500 for the winner of the talent show.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • In the 18th century, 'bounty' often referred to rewards offered by governments for information or capturing criminals.
  • Pirates famously offered bounties for enemies' ships, promoting risky but potentially lucrative adventures on the seas.

Literature

  • The concept of bounty is explored in various literary works, often symbolizing rewards for bravery or achievement.
  • Shakespeare used the term to convey generosity and abundance in plays like 'The Merchant of Venice.'

Pop Culture

  • The Bounty Bar, a chocolate bar filled with coconut, plays on the idea of tropical abundance and sweetness.
  • Bounty hunters are often depicted in movies and TV shows as persistent and brave individuals seeking out rewards for capturing targets.

Nature

  • The term 'bounty' is also used in agriculture to describe a plentiful harvest, highlighting the relationship between farmers and the land.
  • In ecology, 'bounty' can refer to the abundant biodiversity found in rich habitats, essential for a healthy ecosystem.

Origin of 'bounty'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'bontรฉ,' which means goodness or kindness.
  • In Middle English, it was used to describe generosity and giving, reflecting a sense of abundance.

The word 'bounty' originated from Middle English 'bounte', from Old French 'bonte' meaning goodness, generosity. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to generosity or liberality. Over time, the meaning shifted to include rewards for capturing criminals or achieving great deeds.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,832 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.