To repay or return something, typically money, that was borrowed or owed. This can also refer to seeking revenge or retribution for a past wrong or injustice. It can also describe the act of reciprocating a favor or kindness that was previously received. Pay back can also be used figuratively to describe the consequences or repercussions of one’s actions. Overall, pay back implies a sense of settling a debt or balancing the scales, whether financially or emotionally.