currency

[kur-uhn-see, kuhr-]

noun

plural

currencies 

1. something that is used as a medium of exchange; money.

2. general acceptance; prevalence; vogue.

3. a time or period during which something is widely accepted and circulated.

4. the fact or quality of being widely accepted and circulated from person to person.

5. circulation, as of coin.

currency

/ ˈkʌrənsɪ /

noun

1. a metal or paper medium of exchange that is in current use in a particular country

2. general acceptance or circulation; prevalence

   the currency of ideas

3. the period of time during which something is valid, accepted, or in force

4. the act of being passed from person to person

5. (formerly) the local medium of exchange, esp in the colonies, as distinct from sterling

6. slang

   1. (formerly) the native-born Australians, as distinct from the British immigrants

   2. ( as modifier )

      a currency lad

currency

1. Any form of money in actual use as a medium of exchange.

Word History and Origins

Origin of currency¹

From the Medieval Latin word currentia, dating back to 1650–60. See current, -ency

Word History and Origins

Origin of currency¹

C17: from Medieval Latin currentia, literally: a flowing, from Latin currere to run, flow

Example Sentences

On the currency markets, the pound also fell more than 1% against the dollar on Tuesday morning.

From BBC

But the same kinds of popular myths that guided “The Biggest Loser” still have a lot of cultural currency, it turns out.

From Salon

Treasury; the Treasury secretary and comptroller of the currency were ex officio members of its board, and the Treasury secretary presided over its meetings.

From Los Angeles Times

In an attempt to reduce trade barriers, the prime minsters of Grenada and the Bahamas this year called for Africa and the Caribbean to launch a shared currency.

From BBC

He could not boast of anything approaching a deal – the currency by which he tends to operate.

From BBC

Related Words

• cash