reap

verb

ˈrēp 

reaped; reaping; reaps

transitive verb

1

a(1)

: to cut with a sickle, scythe, or reaping machine

(2)

: to clear of a crop by reaping

b

: to gather by reaping : harvest

2

: obtain, win

intransitive verb

: to reap something

Synonyms of reap

• harvest
• pick

Examples of reap in a Sentence

She is now reaping the benefits of her hard work.

He reaped large profits from his investments.

The workers were out reaping the crops.

The workers were out reaping in the fields.

Recent Examples on the Web

Separate filers tend to reap fewer tax benefits. —Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 30 Mar. 2026

Taxpayers generally foot a substantial portion of the bill, and owners reap the revenue from ticket sales, concessions, and stadium naming rights. —Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 29 Mar. 2026

Passover, Good Friday and Easter Sunday will soon arrive to connect us to our tradition and to teach us the lessons of the rewards reaped from long-term commitment. —Michael Pfleger, Chicago Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

His ability to balance earnestness and whimsy, dedication and delight, have reaped palpable benefits for SummerFest. —George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English repen, from Old English reopan

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing reap

• reap the rewards
• reap what one sows

Rhymes for reap

• beep
• cheap
• creep
• deep
• heap
• jeep
• keep
• leap
• peep
• seep
• sheep
• sleep

Kids Definition

reap

verb

ˈrēp 

1

a

: to cut (as grain) or clear (as a field) with a sickle, scythe, or machine

b

: harvest entry 2 sense 1

reap a crop

2

: to get as a result

reap the benefit of hard work