reward
UK: rɪˈwɔːd | US: rɪˈwɔːrd
n. something given in recognition of service, effort, or achievement
vt. to give something to someone in return for their service, effort, or achievement
The word "reward" originates from Old French rewarder (to regard, take notice of), which itself comes from re- (expressing intensive force) + warder (to guard, protect). The sense evolved from "looking back at someone’s actions" to "giving something in return for merit." The morpheme ward traces back to Proto-Germanic wardōną (to watch over), reflecting the idea of attentive recognition. Over time, the meaning shifted from "observation" to "compensation."
She received a cash reward for her outstanding performance.
The company rewards employees who exceed their targets.
His kindness was its own reward.
The police offered a reward for information about the crime.
Hard work often brings its own rewards.