credit union

American  

noun

1. a cooperative group that makes loans to its members at low rates of interest.

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credit union British  

noun

1. a cooperative association whose members can obtain low-interest loans out of their combined savings

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credit union Cultural  

1. An organization formed by employees of a company or institution to make personal loans at low interest rates to all employees of that company or institution.

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Etymology

Origin of credit union

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

For people who need help with a small loan, both Citizens Advice and the FCA suggest contacting your local credit union.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Mine had their main accounts at the credit union, but their mortgage was through a different bank.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

New York Fed President John Williams told reporters at a credit union conference in Washington that the fallout hinges on how long they affect asset prices, especially the price of oil.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

First, the authors conducted a real-world experiment with a credit union where 300 actual loan applicants were divided into three groups.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

Is there a credit union, or a savings association, or other organization to promote thrift in your community?

From Community Civics and Rural Life by Dunn, Arthur William

Related Words

• lending institution