currency

American  

[kur-uhn-see, kuhr-] / ˈkɜr ən si, ˈkʌr- /

noun

plural

currencies

1. something that is used as a medium of exchange; money.

2. general acceptance; prevalence; vogue.

3. a time or period during which something is widely accepted and circulated.

4. the fact or quality of being widely accepted and circulated from person to person.

5. circulation, as of coin.

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currency British  

/ ˈkʌrənsɪ /

noun

1. a metal or paper medium of exchange that is in current use in a particular country

2. general acceptance or circulation; prevalence

   the currency of ideas

3. the period of time during which something is valid, accepted, or in force

4. the act of being passed from person to person

5. (formerly) the local medium of exchange, esp in the colonies, as distinct from sterling

6. slang

   1. (formerly) the native-born Australians, as distinct from the British immigrants

   2. ( as modifier )

      a currency lad

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currency Cultural  

1. Any form of money in actual use as a medium of exchange.

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Etymology

Origin of currency

From the Medieval Latin word currentia, dating back to 1650–60. See current, -ency

Example Sentences

The company had previously pointed to a 2% drop in local currency sales between December and January—which mark the first two months of its first quarter.

From The Wall Street Journal

Investors remain on guard against potential currency intervention as the yen lingers near the 160 threshold, which triggered the Japanese government’s last yen-buying operations in July 2024.

From The Wall Street Journal

U.S. companies procuring foreign goods and supplies have to pay more when the domestic currency is worth less.

From MarketWatch

U.S. companies procuring foreign goods and supplies have to pay more when the domestic currency is worth less.

From MarketWatch

One of Davis’ greatest assets was his position as lieutenant governor; that currency — incumbency and government know-how — no longer trade at the same high value.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cash