stiver

American  

[stahy-ver] / ˈstaɪ vər /

noun

1. Also stuiver a former nickel coin of the Netherlands, equal to five Dutch cents.

2. the smallest possible amount.

   not worth a stiver; not a stiver of work.

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stiver British  

/ ˈstaɪvə /

noun

1. a former Dutch coin worth one twentieth of a guilder

2. a small amount, esp of money

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Etymology

Origin of stiver

First recorded in 1495–1505, stiver is from the Dutch word stuiver

Example Sentences

Behind her was a background of the stiver sea.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Baron von Wildenrod has the reputation here of being rich, but in reality is not worth a stiver.

From 'Clear the Track' A Story of To-day by Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)

Look down thish column," resumed Levi, "and thish, and thish, and thish—there's nine o' them—and not one stiver on th' other side.

From The Tenants of Malory Volume 3 of 3 by Le Fanu, Joseph Sheridan

With him I proved no bargain-driver; With you, don't think I'll bate a stiver!

From The Land of Song, Book II For lower grammar grades by Various

It is not the breeches I mind, though to be sure I shall cut a ridiculous figure on the highroad; no, nor the money, though I have not a stiver left.

From The Watchers A Novel by Mason, A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley)