giveback

1 of 2

noun

give·​back ˈgiv-ˌbak 

: a previous gain (such as an increase in wages or benefits) given back to management by workers (as in a labor contract)

give back

2 of 2

verb

gave back; given back; giving back; gives back

intransitive verb

1

: to provide help or financial assistance to others in appreciation of one's own success or good fortune

… Gardner has refined the art of giving back by plowing 10 percent or more of his earnings into school and educational projects.

—Ernest Holsendolph

No longer on the fringes of travel, voluntourism has attracted increasing numbers of travelers looking to learn new skills, meet people, and give back to the global community.

—Manya Chylinski

The community had people with time to volunteer and give back.

—Joshua Macht

2

archaic : retire, retreat

… the enemy gave back …

—P. G. Wodehouse

… it is certain that he gave back and ordered his soldiers to commence a slow and guarded retreat.

—Nathaniel Hawthorne

Examples of giveback in a Sentence

Noun

The union had to agree to certain givebacks in order to save the jobs of all its members.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

In addition to the historic prize structure, the athletes participating will also earn more through the meet’s unique giveback program. —Taylor Dutch, SELF, 25 Sep. 2024

However, Microsoft did not seek any tax concessions or other givebacks from the village in the development agreement that accompanied its second, larger land purchase. —Karl Ebert, Journal Sentinel, 14 May 2024

Verb

Here are some ways to give back and lend a helping hand to those in need across the Louisville area this holiday season. —Gege Reed, The Courier-Journal, 20 Nov. 2024

The couple started a ministry in 1991 and dedicated their lives to giving back to the community. —Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1978, in the meaning defined above

Verb

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Legal Definition

giveback

noun

give·​back ˈgiv-ˌbak 

: a previous gain (as an increase in wages or benefits) given back to management by workers (as in a labor contract)