Dividend

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdɪvɪˌdɛnd/

Definitions

• A sum of money paid regularly by a company to its shareholders out of its profits.
• A benefit or advantage gained from an investment or effort.
• In mathematics, a number that is being divided by another number.

Usage Examples

• The company announced an increase in its quarterly dividend.
• Hard work and dedication often pay dividends in the long run.
• In the equation 12 ÷ 3 = 4, the number 12 is the dividend.

Etymology

From Latin "dividendum," meaning "thing to be divided," derived from "dividere" (to divide).

Synonyms

• Profit
• Return
• Yield
• Bonus
• Distribution

Antonyms

• Loss
• Debt
• Deficit

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdɪvɪdɛnd/
• American English: /ˈdɪvɪdɛnd/
• Australian English: /ˈdɪvɪdɛnd/

Historical Usage

The concept of dividends dates back to the early days of joint-stock companies in the 17th century, where investors were rewarded for their financial contributions.

Cultural Nuances

In finance, dividends are seen as a sign of a company's stability and profitability. In a broader sense, the phrase "pays dividends" is often used metaphorically to indicate beneficial results from an action.

More Information

Dividends play a crucial role in investment strategies, especially for long-term investors. Companies that consistently pay dividends are often considered financially strong. The dividend yield is an important metric for investors analyzing stocks.