dividend

div·i·dend

noun \ˈdi-və-ˌdend, -dənd\

Definition of DIVIDEND

1

: an individual share of something distributed: as

a : a share in a pro rata distribution (as of profits) to stockholders

b : a share of surplus allocated to a policyholder in a participating insurance policy

2

a : a resultant return or reward <our efforts are finally paying dividends>

b : bonus

3

a : a number to be divided

b : a sum or fund to be divided and distributed

— div·i·dend·less \-ləs\ adjective

Examples of DIVIDEND

1. Profits are distributed to shareholders as dividends.
2. <the reward money was an unexpected dividend for our good deed>

Origin of DIVIDEND

Middle English divident, from Latin dividendus, gerundive of dividere

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to DIVIDEND

Synonyms

cumshaw, bonus, donative, extra, gratuity, gravy, gravy train, lagniappe, perk, perquisite, throw-in, tip

Related Words

pension; bestowal, presentation; benefaction, beneficence, benevolence, bounty, charity, generosity, largesse (also largess), philanthropy; contribution, donation, gift, offering, present; grant, subsidy; boon, manna, windfall; favor, freebie (or freebee), giveaway, premium; award, prize, reward; fringe benefit, icing

Other Economics Terms

actuary, compound interest, globalization, indemnity, portfolio, rentier, stagflation, usurer

Rhymes with DIVIDEND

apprehend, bitter end, business end, comprehend, condescend, discommend, in the end, minuend, on the mend, open-end, overspend, recommend, repetend, reprehend, subtrahend, vilipend

dividend

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Individual share of earnings distributed among stockholders of a corporation or company in proportion to their holdings. Usually paid in cash, dividends may also be distributed in the form of additional shares of stock. Preferred stockholders receive a preferential dividend, usually at a fixed rate; common stockholders get a portion of what remains after payment of the dividends on preferred stock.