Pay it forward

Meaning

Repay kindness by helping someone else instead of the original benefactor.

Usage

Used when encouraging generosity to ripple outward.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Modern altruism movement inspired by novels and movies.

Term popularized by a 1999 novel and subsequent charity campaigns.