dividend
In financial circles, this term carries a strong connotation of reward and stability. It represents the tangible realization of an investment, shifting the focus from the growth of an asset's value to the actual cash flow generated by that asset. It is the primary incentive for conservative investors seeking passive income. When used in a non-financial sense, the word evokes the idea of a delayed payoff. It suggests that an initial effort or sacrifice has finally matured into a positive result. This usage is common in political or social discourse to describe the positive outcomes of a specific policy, such as a peace dividend.
Countable when referring to a specific payment amount or a particular benefit. Uncountable when referring to the general concept of profit distribution.
Meanings
A sum of money paid regularly by a company to its shareholders out of its profits.
"The company declared a quarterly dividend of fifty cents per share."
A benefit or advantage resulting from a particular action or situation.
"The health benefits of exercise are a long-term dividend for the body."
A number to be divided by another number.
"In the equation 10 divided by 2, 10 is the dividend."
Examples
The company paid a cash dividend to all preferred shareholders.
The new policy provided a peace dividend for the entire region.
The student identified the dividend before performing the long division.