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taxes

Transitive Verb[C/U] Both
pl: taxespast: taxedpp: taxeding: taxingcomp: more taxingsup: most taxing

The term carries a heavy sense of obligation and systemic authority. In a financial sense, it often evokes feelings of resentment or necessity, as it represents a mandatory loss of personal wealth for a collective public good. It is the primary mechanism of state funding and is central to political discourse regarding social services and government spending. When used as a verb, the word shifts from a financial transaction to a physical or mental strain. It describes a process of depletion, where a resource is pushed to its absolute limit. This usage is more formal than saying something is tiring or difficult, suggesting a systematic wearing down of capacity.

Countable when referring to specific types of levies, such as sales taxes or property taxes. Uncountable when referring to the general concept of taxation as a system.

Meanings

Noun
[something]

Compulsory contributions to state revenue, levied by the government on workers' income and business profits.

"The government increased taxes on luxury goods."

Transitive Verb
[someone][something]

To make heavy demands on a person's strength, patience, or resources.

"The long hike taxes the endurance of even the fittest climbers."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026Report an Error