# reward

/ɹiˈwɔɹd/ (US) · /ɹɪwˈɔːd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reward
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. benefit for effort

noun · CEFR B1

something of value you get because you did something good or worked hard.

For teachers: a benefit, such as money or recognition, bestowed in return for merit, service, or achievement.

- The company gave her a small bonus as a reward for her hard work.
- The sense of personal satisfaction was a far greater reward for the volunteers than any formal certificate of appreciation could have been.

### 2. money for finding something

noun · CEFR B1

money offered to anyone who helps find a lost person or item.

For teachers: a sum of money offered by an authority or individual for help in a specific matter, such as capturing a criminal or recovering lost property.

- There is a five-hundred-dollar reward for the return of the missing cat.
- The police department offered a substantial reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved in the robbery.

### 3. to give a prize

verb · CEFR B1

to give someone something good because they have done something helpful or successful.

For teachers: to bestow a recompense or prize upon someone in recognition of their actions or qualities.

- The school rewarded the students with a trip to the zoo for their good behaviour.
- The board of directors voted to reward the CEO with a significant stock option package following the company's record-breaking quarterly profits.

Usage: This is a transitive verb and requires a direct object.

## Examples

- The company gives a cash reward for the best idea.
- After months of training for the marathon, crossing the finish line was the ultimate reward for her dedication.
- While financial incentives are common, many employees find that professional autonomy and public recognition serve as more effective long-term rewards for high-level performance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.