A rebate is a partial refund or discount that is given to a buyer after they have made a purchase. This financial incentive is often provided by manufacturers or retailers to encourage sales, promote consumer loyalty, or clear out inventory. Rebates can come in various forms, including cash back, credit towards future purchases, or discounts on subsequent purchases.
The word "rebate" originates from the Middle English term "rebaten," which means "to beat back" or "to abate." The root is derived from the Old French word "rabatre," meaning "to reduce or lower." Over time, the term evolved to signify the reduction of a price or the return of a part of a payment.