owe

verb \ˈō\

: to need to pay or repay money to a person, bank, business, etc.

: to need to do or give something to someone who has done something for you or given something to you

—used to say that something should be done for or given to someone

owedow·ing

Full Definition of OWE

transitive verb

a archaic : possess, own

b : to have or bear (an emotion or attitude) to someone or something <owes the boss a grudge>

a (1) : to be under obligation to pay or repay in return for something received : be indebted in the sum of <owes me $5> (2) : to be under obligation to render (as duty or service) <I owe you a favor>

b : to be indebted to <owes the grocer for supplies>

: to be indebted for <owed his wealth to his father> <owes much to good luck>

intransitive verb

: to be in debt <owes for his house>

: to be attributable <an idea that owes to Greek philosophy>

— owe it

: to have a responsibility to do something to satisfy an obligation or duty <owes it to voters to explain his reasons>

See owe defined for English-language learners

See owe defined for kids

Origin of OWE

Middle English, to possess, own, owe, from Old English āgan; akin to Old High German eigun (1st & 3d plural present indicative) possess, Sanskrit īśe he possesses

First Known Use: before 12th century

OWE Defined for Kids