Repaying: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'repay' comes from the Old French 'repayer,' meaning 'to pay back,' and is rooted in Latin as 'repagare,' which means 'to pay again.'
• The prefix 're-' suggests repetition, while 'pay' is linked to the concept of giving money or rewards.
• In modern usage, 'repay' has become common not only in financial contexts but also in moral or social obligations.

Culture

• In many cultures, repaying debts is seen as a moral duty, and failing to do so can lead to social ostracism.
• The concept of repaying kindness is often summarized in the saying, 'What goes around, comes around,' reflecting a belief in karmic justice.
• In literature, stories often focus on themes of repayment, whether it’s a hero's journey or the redemption of a character through acts of kindness.

Psychology

• Studies show that the act of repaying debts can reinforce feelings of trust and reliability between individuals.
• The 'reciprocity norm' suggests that humans are inclined to return favors, which can strengthen social bonds and community ties.
• Feeling indebted can trigger a sense of anxiety; thus, the act of repayment can provide relief and restore emotional balance.

History

• Throughout history, various civilizations have developed systems of debt and repayment; ancient Mesopotamians even had written records of debts on clay tablets.
• The concept of 'usury' has been debated for centuries, as charging interest on loans posed ethical questions regarding repayment.
• The Great Depression highlighted issues of debt as many individuals faced challenges in repaying loans, leading to reforms in banking practices.

Finance

• In personal finance, the importance of repaying debts promptly is emphasized to maintain a healthy credit score.
• Government policies often encourage repaying student loans, with various repayment plans designed to assist borrowers based on income.
• Credit card companies typically offer rewards for paying off balances on time, reflecting a strategy to encourage responsible repayment habits.

Positioned at #23,854, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 23851 girt
• 23852 strangulation
• 23853 wrangling
• 23854 repaying
• 23855 gnawed
• 23856 ducal
• 23857 commingled
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