Cash

Definition

Cash is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to physical money in the form of coins and banknotes. As a verb, it means to exchange a check or similar payment document for its equivalent in cash.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kæʃ/
• Respelling: kash

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kæʃ/
• Respelling: kash

Etymology

The word "cash" originates from the Middle French "caisse" (chest, box), which evolved from the Old Italian "cassa," meaning "box" or "case," derived from Latin "capsa." In English, "cash" initially referred to a container for valuables before coming to mean the money held within. By the 17th century, it evolved to mean physical currency itself.

Derivatives

• Cashier (noun)
• Cashless (adjective)
• Cashier’s check (noun)
• Encash (verb)
• Cashbox (noun)

Synonyms

• Currency
• Money
• Funds

Antonyms

• Credit
• Debt
• Check

Usage

The term "cash" is used to refer to physical currency in transactions, as well as the action of exchanging checks or other payment forms for cash. For example, "He paid in cash," or "She went to the bank to cash her paycheck."

Related Terms

• Currency: A system of money in general use in a particular country.
• Payment: The action or process of paying someone or something.
• Check: A written order directing a bank to pay money.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Physical currency in the form of coins and banknotes: Refers to tangible money used for direct payments and transactions.
  • Example: "He prefers to carry cash instead of using cards."

Verb

• To exchange a check or similar document for cash: Refers to the action of obtaining physical money in exchange for a financial instrument.
  • Example: "She went to the bank to cash her paycheck."