ratepayer

noun

rate·​pay·​er ˈrāt-ˌpā-ər How to pronounce ratepayer (audio)
1
British : taxpayer
2
: one who pays for a utility service and especially electricity according to established rates

Examples of ratepayer 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.
The imports will include power produced by new natural gas plants that Illinois ratepayers will help build in other states. — John Lippert, Chicago Tribune, 14 Oct. 2026 Legislation should include measures to protect water quality and other environmental considerations, as well as protections for ratepayers. — Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2026 Long-term relief depends on reducing the amount ratepayers must finance. — Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 Hernandez said the city may need to raise fees to those other entities instead of relying only on city ratepayers. — Sandra McDonald, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ratepayer

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ratepayer was in 1845

Rhymes for ratepayer

See All Rhymes for ratepayer

Browse Nearby Words

rate-of-rise thermostat
ratepayer
rater
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ratepayer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ratepayer. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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