Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a pretty penny

idiom
/ə ˈprɪti ˈpɛni/
Definition
A phrase used to describe something that is very expensive or costly.
Examples
  • Buying a new car these days can cost you a pretty penny.
  • She spent a pretty penny on her designer handbag.
Meaning
The term ‘a pretty penny’ suggests that a significant amount of money is required to acquire something or that the item in question is valuable due to its high price.
Synonyms
  • a lot of money
  • an arm and a leg
  • cost a fortune