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Payroll

UK //ˈpeɪrɔːl//US //ˈpeɪrɔl//

Definition

A list of employees and their wages that an employer pays.

In simple words: A list of employees and their payments.

Examples

The company processes its payroll every two weeks.
She works in the payroll department, managing employee salaries.
They need to submit their payroll information by Friday.
Payroll taxes are a significant cost for businesses.
The payroll system must be updated with new hires.

Usage notes

Used in business contexts. Avoid in casual conversation. Refer specifically to employee salaries and wages.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'pay' + 'roll' – employees are 'paid' on a 'roll' of lists.

Collocations

run payroll
payroll department
payroll taxes
process payroll
payroll system

Synonyms

paylist
salary list
wage roll
employee compensation
payment schedule

Common mistakes

Confusing 'payroll' with 'salary' - 'payroll' refers to the system, 'salary' refers to the amount.
Using 'payroll' as a verb - it's a noun.
Mixing up 'payroll taxes' with regular taxes; payroll taxes are specific to employee wages.