plural bribes
: something valuable (such as money) that is given in order to get someone to do something
I offered the children a bribe for finishing their homework.
Note: Usually a bribe is used to get someone to do something illegal or dishonest.
bribes; bribed; bribing
: to try to get someone to do something by giving or promising something valuable (such as money) : to give or offer a bribe to (someone)
She was arrested for attempting to bribe a judge.
They bribed him to keep quiet about the incident.
We bribed the children with candy.
Cite this Entry
“Bribe.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/bribe. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.
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