currency

[kur-uhn-see, kuhr-]

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.

currency

/ 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

currency

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of currency¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of currency¹

C17: from Medieval Latin currentia, literally: a flowing, from Latin currere to run, flow

Example Sentences

Flattery is the currency of diplomacy in Washington nowadays.

Read more on BBC

Other currencies bring their own political risks, as the French government is demonstrating.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Since a run on the peso began on September 8 -- in the aftermath of the ruling party's defeat in bellwether elections in Buenos Aires province -- the currency has lost seven percent against the dollar.

Read more on Barron's

As treasury secretary, Bessent now sees merit in helping out an overvalued foreign currency.

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Since the end of June, gold has become a bigger part of the combined foreign currency and gold reserves held by countries, estimated Deutsche Bank’s research analyst Michael Hsueh.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• cash