medium of exchange

American  

noun

1. anything generally accepted as representing a standard of value and exchangeable for goods or services.

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medium of exchange British  

noun

1. anything acceptable as a measure of value and a standard of exchange for goods and services in a particular country, region, etc

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Etymology

Origin of medium of exchange

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

That’s why a stable price is a prerequisite for bitcoin becoming a widely used medium of exchange.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

The petrodollar narrative focuses almost exclusively on the dollar’s role as a medium of exchange and a unit of account.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

Marketplaces of all kinds require rules, confidence, and common medium of exchange.

From Slate • Sep. 24, 2025

Metal coins may be just about the oldest medium of exchange still in use today, but ensuring their worth requires some of the most state-of-the-art technology available.

From Science Daily • May 14, 2024

Cotton was both needed and easily stored, which made it useful as a medium of exchange or status.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann