spending money

American  

noun

1. money for small personal expenses.

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spending money British  

noun

1. an allowance for small personal expenses; pocket money

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Etymology

Origin of spending money

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

“This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children.”

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

Before spending money on software, he is required to estimate the returns.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

It was maybe the fifth time I had ever eaten at the Newport Beach-based fast-casual chain because the idea of spending money on pricey, whatever-tasting burritos was never my thing.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

Windeler raised concerns about the trust spending money irresponsibly.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

We’d be with our uncle, moon over the Jackson Five, and get candy without spending money that could go toward our Madison Square Garden savings.

From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia