Penny

Definition

Penny is a noun that refers to a small denomination of currency in various countries, such as the United States, where it equals one cent, or the United Kingdom, where it is equivalent to one-hundredth of a pound. It can also be used figuratively to describe something of minimal monetary value.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɛ.ni/
• Respelling: PEN-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɛ.ni/
• Respelling: PEN-ee

Etymology

The word "penny" originates from the Old English "pening" or "penig," which referred to a small coin or unit of money. It is related to the Proto-Germanic "*panningaz," with similar terms in Old High German ("pfennig") and Old Norse ("penningr"). The term has been used since Anglo-Saxon times to denote small denominations of currency.

Derivatives

• Penniless (adjective)
• Pennywise (adjective)
• Pennyworth (noun)
• Pennyweight (noun)
• Penny-pinching (adjective, informal)

Synonyms

• Cent
• Coin
• Small change

Antonyms

• Note (paper money)
• Bill
• None

Usage

The term "penny" is used both literally and figuratively. Examples include "He found a penny on the street" (literal) or "A penny for your thoughts" (figurative expression).

Related Terms

• Coin: A piece of metal currency.
• Copper: A term for pennies in some English-speaking regions.
• Currency: A system of money used in a country.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small denomination of currency: Refers to a coin worth one cent in the U.S. or one-hundredth of a pound in the U.K.
  • Example: "I paid a dollar and a penny for the candy."
• A figurative amount representing minimal value: Used to emphasize something inexpensive or of little worth.
  • Example: "Every penny counts when you're saving for a trip."
• In expressions or idioms: Common in phrases such as "A penny saved is a penny earned."
  • Example: "She refused to spend even a single penny on unnecessary items."