The word 报酬 is formed by combining two characters that conceptually reinforce each other to create the idea of compensation for effort or service. The first character, 报 (bào), carries the core meaning of "to repay" or "to reciprocate". The second character, 酬 (chóu), adds the specific dimension of "to toast" or "to reward", originally from a ceremonial context of offering wine in thanks. Together, they form a compound where both elements point to the act of giving something in return, solidifying the modern meaning of "reward", "remuneration", or "payment".