Pronunciation: [ɡˈe͡ɪv bˈak] (IPA) 
The word "gave back" is spelled exactly how it sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, "gave" is spelled /ɡeɪv/ and "back" is spelled /bæk/. When put together, the two words make the phrase /ɡeɪv bæk/. The "a" in "gave" makes the long "ay" sound, and the "ck" in "back" creates the hard "k" sound. This phrase means to return something that was previously given, and its spelling is easy to remember once the IPA sounds are recognized.
The phrase "gave back" primarily refers to the act of returning or restoring something to its original owner or intended recipient. It implies the voluntary surrendering or delivering an object, often after borrowing or being in possession of it for a period of time. When one "gives back," they are effectively returning the item to its previous state or place.
Moreover, "gave back" can also depict the act of reciprocating or returning a favor or kindness. In this sense, it implies showing gratitude or appreciation by granting an equivalent or similar act in return for what was received. Gave back can be seen as maintaining a sense of balance or equilibrium in interpersonal relationships, as it fosters a sense of fairness and ensures that one party is not consistently benefiting more than the other.
Furthermore, "gave back" can be used metaphorically to describe the act of making amends or reparations for something. It involves rectifying an unfavorable situation, often caused by one's own actions or mistakes. By giving back in this context, an individual acknowledges their wrongdoing and takes steps to correct it, aiming to restore harmony or balance in a particular situation or relationship.
Overall, "gave back" embodies the act of returning, reciprocating, or rectifying, and signifies a voluntary action aimed at preserving fairness, gratitude, and harmony.
The word "gave back" is not a standalone word with its own etymology. It is a combination of two separate words: "gave" and "back".
The word "gave" is the past tense of the verb "give", which is derived from the Old English word "giefan". The Old English word itself has Germanic roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "gebanan".
The word "back", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "bæc", which has Germanic origins. It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "bakam".
So, when combined, "gave back" simply means returning or surrendering something that was previously given.
