bimetallism

American  

[bahy-met-l-iz-uhm] / baɪˈmɛt lˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the use of two metals, ordinarily gold and silver, at a fixed relative value, as the monetary standard.

2. the doctrine or policies supporting such a standard.

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bimetallism British  

/ baɪˈmɛtəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the use of two metals, esp gold and silver, in fixed relative values as the standard of value and currency

2. the economic policies or doctrine supporting a bimetallic standard

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Other Word Forms

• bimetallist
  noun
• bimetallistic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of bimetallism

First recorded in 1875–80; bi- ¹ + metal + -ism

Example Sentences

Has for some time had by him paper on Bimetallism, which he desired to read to House.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 105, August 19th 1893 by Various

A. Bimetallism is a subject that is frequently discussed by amateur financiers, after a good dinner, on the near approach of the coffee.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 104, February 11, 1893 by Burnand, F. C. (Francis Cowley), Sir

Chatty remarks on Bimetallism would meet with his earnest attention.

From Love Among the Chickens by Wodehouse, P. G. (Pelham Grenville)

It was reasonably thought in advance that Bimetallism would prove too much even for the charm of his oratory.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 104, March 11, 1893 by Burnand, F. C. (Francis Cowley), Sir

Unfortunately, Dr. Hunter's case had been strengthened by a somewhat weak yielding of Mr. Gladstone to a demand for a day on Bimetallism.

From Sketches in the House (1893) by O'Conner, T. P.