income

noun

in·​come ˈin-ˌkəm How to pronounce income (audio)
 also  ˈin-kəm,
 or  ˈiŋ-kəm
Synonyms of incomenext
1
: a gain or recurrent benefit usually measured in money that derives from capital or labor
also : the amount of such gain received in a period of time
has an income of $30,000 a year
2
: a coming in : entrance, influx
fluctuations in the nutrient income of a body of water

Synonyms

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Examples of income in a Sentence

Any income from investments must be reported. Farming is his main source of income. Even on two incomes, we're having a hard time keeping up with our bills. He earns a good income as a consultant. What was the company's annual income?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How Do Taxes on Overtime Work? Under U.S. tax law, overtime pay is treated as regular income and is subject to federal and state taxes. — Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025 While demonstrating reliable profitability and positive free cash flow, revenue and income growth is modest. — Gurufocus, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 So far this fiscal year, about 64% of the government's spending has been on Social Security, Medicare, health programs, income security and veterans' benefits and services. — Stephen Fowler, NPR, 6 Mar. 2025 Tenants typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the federal subsidy making up the remainder of the payment to the landlord. — Andrew Khouri, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for income

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of income was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing income

Rhymes for income

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Browse Nearby Words

income
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Cite this Entry

“Income.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/income. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

income

noun
in·​come ˈin-ˌkəm How to pronounce income (audio)
: a gain usually measured in money that comes in from labor, business, or property

Legal Definition

income

noun
in·​come
: a gain or recurrent benefit usually measured in money that derives from capital or labor
also : the amount of such gain received in a period of time
an income of $20,000 a year

More from Merriam-Webster on income

Nglish: Translation of income for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about income

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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