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

China’s public sector is not just talking about humanoid robots; it is spending money to buy them or fund deployments, helping startups get early revenue and proving grounds.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

Newhouse’s philosophy of spending money to produce quality coverage and a hands-off approach toward his editors led to many successes, including multiple Pulitzers.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

Children as young as five are at risk of being contacted by strangers and pressured into spending money on Roblox, campaigners have claimed in a complaint to US regulators.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

The turnaround mission comes at a fortuitous time, when malls are once again alive with the sound of teenagers hanging out and spending money.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 16, 2026

Penelope did not know for certain about the fancy shops, but given Lady Constance’s affinity for spending money, she felt it was a safe assumption.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood