bounty

noun

boun·​ty ˈbau̇n-tē How to pronounce bounty (audio)
plural bounties
Synonyms of bountynext
1
: something that is given generously
nature's bounty
2
: liberality in giving : generosity
3
: yield especially of a crop
this summer's bounty of tomatoes
4
: a reward, premium, or subsidy especially when offered or given by a government: such as
a
: an extra allowance to induce entry into the armed services
b
: a grant to encourage an industry
c
: a payment to encourage the destruction of noxious animals
a bounty on coyotes
d
: a payment for the capture of or assistance in the capture of an outlaw
had a bounty of $500 on his head

Examples of bounty in a Sentence

summer's bounty of plump tomatoes The cottage is filled with a bounty of fresh flowers.
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.
These vegetables take about four months to mature, giving Martha a bounty of flavorful onions to enjoy and share come summer. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 7 Feb. 2026 Understanding the best way to store different types of cheese is key to make the most of that bounty from your local cheese monger—and no, a plastic bag is not the right way to go. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 6 Feb. 2026 In contrast, James Beard Award–finalist chef Steve McHugh is all about the Earth’s bounty, focusing on hyperlocal ingredients and Argentinian grilling techniques at Landrace. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Feb. 2026 To show how human and animal lives parallel each other, whether thriving upon the bounties of a healthy ecosystem or impacted by change, Kotevska focuses on Nikola Conev and his extended family. Alissa Simon, Variety, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bounty

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bounte goodness, from Anglo-French bunté, bountee, from Latin bonitat-, bonitas, from bonus good, from Old Latin duenos; akin to Sanskrit duva reverence, favor

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bounty was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bounty.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bounty. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

bounty

noun
boun·​ty ˈbau̇nt-ē How to pronounce bounty (audio)
plural bounties
1
b
: something given generously
2
: money given as a reward (as for killing a harmful animal or capturing a criminal)
Etymology

Middle English bounte "goodness," from early French bunté (same meaning), derived from Latin bonus "good" — related to bonus

Legal Definition

bounty

noun
boun·​ty ˈbau̇n-tē How to pronounce bounty (audio)
plural bounties
1
: generosity in bestowing gifts especially by will
2
: a reward, premium, or subsidy especially offered by a government

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