Currency

/ˈkʌrənsi/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonFinance
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The system of money used in a country.

/ˈkʌrənsi/

nounneutralBeginner
Finance

A system of money in general use in a particular country.

The US dollar is a widely used currency.

💡 Simply: Currency is the money a country uses. Imagine you're buying a toy with dollar bills in America; that money is the US currency!

👶 For kids: Money that a country uses!

More Examples

2

The exchange rate between different currencies fluctuates daily.

3

Understanding currency exchange is important when traveling.

How It's Used

Finance

"The euro is the official currency of the European Union."

International trade

"Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can significantly impact international trade."

2

The state of being widely used or accepted.

/ˈkʌrənsi/

nounneutralIntermediate
Abstract

The state of being used or accepted.

This opinion has gained currency in recent years.

💡 Simply: Imagine a popular trend or idea. If everyone's talking about it, it's 'in currency'– it's being used and is common!

👶 For kids: When something is used or talked about a lot!

More Examples

2

The rumor quickly gained currency among the students.

3

The new style quickly achieved currency among the fashion community.

How It's Used

Figurative language

"The idea gained currency after the new research was published."

Social discourse

"Conspiracy theories gain currency in times of uncertainty."

Tip:If an idea is 'in currency,' it's 'running around,' being talked about and accepted.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Idioms & expressions

gain currency

To become widely known, used, or accepted.

"The idea began to gain currency among the public after the TV show."

From Middle English, from Anglo-French *curraunce* 'circulation,' from Latin *currere* 'to run.' Originally referred to the 'flowing' or 'circulation' of money.

Historically referred to the continuous flow of money or goods in an economy.

Memory tip

Think of the coins and bills you use every day. That's your currency!

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"to run, flow"

foreign currencylocal currencygain currencylose currencycurrency exchange

Common misspellings

currensycurrancy

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written