Coin

Definition

Coin is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a small, flat, typically round piece of metal issued by a government as money. As a verb, it means to create or invent a new word or phrase.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɔɪn/
• Respelling: koin

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɔɪn/
• Respelling: koin

The pronunciation of "coin" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "coin" originates from the Latin "cuneus," meaning "wedge," which passed into Old French as "coing," referring to a corner or wedge shape. In Middle English, "coin" came to denote a stamped piece of metal and later expanded to include the creation of currency.

Derivatives

• Coinage (noun)
• Coined (verb)
• Coinal (adjective)
• Recoin (verb)
• Coiner (noun)

Synonyms

• Currency
• Money
• Medallion

Antonyms

• Paper money
• Banknote
• None

Usage

The term "coin" is often used to refer to physical currency, as in "He paid with a coin." It also applies to the act of creating new terms, as in "She coined the phrase 'virtual reality.'"

Related Terms

• Mint: A facility where coins are produced.
• Token: A piece of metal similar to a coin, often used for a specific purpose.
• Currency: The system of money in general use in a country.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small, flat, round piece of metal used as money: Refers to government-issued metal currency.
  • Example: "The vending machine only accepts coins."

Verb

• To create or invent a new word or phrase: Used to describe the act of originating new expressions.
  • Example: "The author coined the term 'social networking.'