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Synonyms & Similar Words
Meaning of owe
The primary meaning of the word "owe" is to be under an obligation to pay or repay something, especially money, to someone.
Definitions
- To have a moral or legal obligation to do something or to pay something, especially money, to someone
- * To be under an obligation to someone because of their help or support
- * To be in debt to someone or something
Etymology of owe
The word "owe" comes from Old English "ōwian", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "aicjan" and the Proto-Indo-European root "ai-", both of which carry the sense of "to possess" or "to have"
Historically, the word has been used to express a range of obligations, including financial, moral, and social debts
Example Uses
- I owe my friend $100 for the concert tickets
- * She owes her success to her hard work and determination
- * The company owes a significant amount of money to its investors