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

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

One standout was Affirm’s branded debit card, which continued to gain traction in the quarter.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

“If it’s your debit card, it’s hard to get the toothpaste back in the tube.”

From MarketWatch • Dec. 10, 2025

Venmo’s debit card now offers 5% cash back at certain merchants, and Klarna added a premium debit tier that comes with a rose-gold card and access to airport lounges for about $540 a year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025

I wonder if Mom has noticed, by now, that her debit card is missing.

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle