plural taxes
: an amount of money that a government requires people to pay according to their income, the value of their property, etc., and that is used to pay for the things done by the government
The decision was made to raise/cut taxes.
He was accused of evading taxes.
What was your income before/after taxes?
—often + ona tax on tobacco products
What is the amount of tax to be paid?
What was your income before/after tax?
tax deductions/laws/rates
taxes; taxed; taxing
1
a
: to require (someone) to pay a tax
He believes in taxing the rich to give to the poor.
You are taxed according to your income.
b
: to require someone to pay a tax on (something)
—often used as (be) taxed
All income/property is taxed.
The sale of wine is taxed in this state.
2
: to require a lot from (something or someone) : to put demands on (something or someone)
That job really taxed our strength. [=required us to use a lot of physical effort]
All this waiting is taxing my patience. [=is making me lose my patience]
puzzles that tax your brain
You can have an enjoyable vacation without taxing your budget. [=without having to spend a lot of money]
Cite this Entry
“Tax.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/tax. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.
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