1. That which is given to another to recompense him for what has been received from him; as a rent for the hire of a house. 2. A salary paid to a person for his services. 3. The distribution of rewards and punishments. This word is sometimes used in law, though not commonly in modern times, as the equivalent of “recompense,” or a payment or compensation for services, property, use of an estate, or other value received.