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threepence

[thrip-uh ns, threp-, thruhp-; three-pens]
noun
  1. (used with a singular or plural verb) British. a sum of three pennies.
  2. a former cupronickel coin of the United Kingdom, a quarter of a shilling, equal to three pennies: use phased out after decimalization in 1971.
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Also thrippence, thruppence.

Origin of threepence

First recorded in 1580–90; three + pence
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for threepence

Historical Examples of threepence

  • It seemed a pity to end it in order to save two pounds eight and threepence.

    Kent Knowles: Quahaug

    Joseph C. Lincoln

  • It seemed sinful; but he laid two shillings and threepence on the counter.

  • The sum is sixteen pounds eleven shillings and threepence, sir.

    The Girl on the Boat

    Pelham Grenville Wodehouse

  • The Chinese labourers do not receive more than twopence or threepence a day.

  • Flying Boats (Tony paid for himself), a penny, one and threepence.

    Jackanapes

    Juliana Horatio Ewing