Yield | Definition, Etymology, Synonyms & Antonyms

Yield (noun)

Definition

“Yield” has multiple meanings depending on the context:

• Noun – Production or Output: A “yield” can refer to the amount or quantity of something produced or generated, such as agricultural crops or financial returns.

Etymology

The term “yield” comes from the Middle English word “yelden,” which is derived from the Old English word “gieldan.” It is related to the Proto-Germanic word “geldan” and the Proto-Indo-European root “ghel,” meaning “to give.”

Synonyms

• Produce
• Generate
• Provide
• Surrender
• Relinquish
• Output

Antonyms

• Withhold
• Retain
• Keep
• Resist
• Defend

Example

A unique example of “yield” is its use in the context of traffic and road signs. A “yield” sign indicates that a driver must slow down or stop to give the right-of-way to other traffic before proceeding. It signifies a voluntary act of allowing others to proceed first.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How is “yield” used in agriculture?

In agriculture, “yield” refers to the amount of crops or agricultural products produced from a specific area of land. It is often measured in terms of quantity per unit area, such as bushels per acre.

What does “yield to temptation” mean?

“Yield to temptation” means succumbing or giving in to a desire or temptation, often implying the act of doing something despite knowing it might not be wise or beneficial.

Can “yield” also refer to financial matters?

Yes, “yield” is commonly used in financial contexts to describe the return on an investment, such as the annual interest or dividend earned on a financial instrument like a bond or stock.

What is the difference between “yield” and “produce”?

“Yield” typically refers to the amount or quantity of something produced, while “produce” is a broader term that encompasses the act of creating or making something, whether tangible or intangible.

Is “yield” always a passive action?

Not necessarily. While “yield” often implies giving way or surrendering, it can also refer to active actions of producing or generating something, such as yielding results or yielding a profit.

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