owe

Definition

To be under an obligation to give something back to someone or to perform some action for someone.

Etymology

From Middle English owen, from Old English āgan, from Proto-West Germanic *aigan (“to own”), from Proto-Germanic *aiganą, from Proto-Indo-European *h₂eh₂óyḱe (“to possess, own”), reduplicated stative of *h₂eyḱ- (“to own”). See also own, ought. Cognate with Sanskrit ईष्टे (īṣṭe, “to own, possess”).

Example Sentences

• "We owe it to our children to make our nation a better place to live in the future."
• "I owe Kevin five bucks which he lent to me last week."
• "This time I'll cover for you, but now you owe me a favour."