debit card

American  

noun

1. a plastic card that resembles a credit card but functions like a check and through which payments for purchases or services are made electronically to the bank accounts of participating retailing establishments directly from those of card holders.

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debit card British  

noun

1. an embossed plastic card issued by a bank or building society to enable its customers to pay for goods or services by inserting it into a computer-controlled device at the place of sale, which is connected through the telephone network to the bank or building society. It may also function as a cash card, a cheque card, or both

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Etymology

Origin of debit card

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Data from Bank of America, published Monday, showed a 4.3% increase in credit and debit card spending last month, marking the biggest gain in nearly three years.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

He did use a fake name for the sender's details - to avoid spam, he claims - but stresses that he paid with his own debit card.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

Low-income Minnesotans can also qualify for a preloaded debit card to pay for incidental expenses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

For some extra protection, make your online purchases with a credit card instead of a debit card.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 10, 2025

In a smooth move—he’d had plenty of practice—Benji whipped out his debit card and slapped it into her hand.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty