base pay

noun

: a rate or amount of pay for a standard work period, job, or position exclusive of additional payments or allowances

Examples of base pay in a Sentence

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.
Reams pointed out that Cassellius' salary – a base pay of $320,000 – stands in stark contrast to the pay of MPS teachers and staff, many of whom work second or third jobs to make ends meet. Kelli Arseneau, jsonline.com, 24 Apr. 2026 Shell had the same base pay and stock awards as Ellison. Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 24 Apr. 2026 Five years ago, the base pay for board members was $135,980. Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 19 Apr. 2026 The top pick will earn $500,000 in base pay, more than 6x what the top pick made last year. Scott Soshnick, Sportico.com, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for base pay

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of base pay was in 1862

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Cite this Entry

“Base pay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/base%20pay. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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