WordGarden.iocoin
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɔɪn/
US
- /ˈkɔɪn/
Meanings
Noun
a small flat piece of metal money
a unit of digital currency, especially a cryptocurrency token
money in general
Verb
to invent a new word, phrase, or expression
to make metal coins
Beyond the definition
A coin isn't just pocket change; it's a small, usually round piece of metal used primarily as a form of money. Think of pirates burying chests full of gold coins! But coins aren't limited to treasure; they represent value and have been used for trade for thousands of years—long before credit cards or digital payments existed. You might flip a coin to make a decision or collect coins as a hobby. The word can also be used as a verb: "He always tries to coin a new phrase," meaning he likes to invent catchy expressions.
The word "coin" most commonly refers to a flat, typically circular piece of metal used as money. These come in various denominations—pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters—and are stamped with images or symbols representing the issuing country or authority. Coins have a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where they were often made of gold, silver, or bronze. They served not just as currency but also as propaganda tools, displaying rulers' portraits and celebrating military victories.
However, "coin" isn't only a noun. As a verb, it means "to create" or "to invent," particularly when referring to a new word or phrase. For example: "The journalist coined the term 'fake news.'" This usage stems from the historical practice of "coining" metal—stamping a piece of metal to give it a new form and official value.
There are also several common phrases associated with the word. "The other side of the coin" is used to describe a different or opposite way of looking at a situation. In everyday English, people also say someone is "coining it" when they are making money quickly. Whether you are counting your savings, inventing new words, or considering a different perspective, the word "coin" stays a useful idea for both exchange and language.
Examples
- 1
Loose change
I found a few coins at the bottom of my bag.
- 2
Parking
Do you have a coin for the parking meter?
- 3
Chance decision
Let's flip a coin to see who goes first.
- Phraseflip a coin
use chance to make a choice
- 4
Payment
The machine only takes coins, not cards.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Collecting
He collects old silver coins from different countries.
- 6
Word creation
A journalist first coined the term in the 1990s.
- Patterncoin a term/expression
invent a new word or expression
- 7
Political connection
In politics, fear and anger are often two sides of the same coin.
- Phrasetwo sides of the same coin
two closely connected parts of one situation
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- coinnounverb
Forms
- coinspluralnounverb
- coinedpast tenseverbnoun
- coining-ing formverbnoun