Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

obolus

noun
/ˈäbəˌləs/
Definition
A small coin, especially one used in ancient Greece, often made of silver.
Examples
  • In ancient Greece, the obolus was commonly used as a form of payment for passage to the afterlife.
  • He found an old obolus while excavating the ruins of a Greek settlement.
  • During the ceremony, attendees would often place an obolus on the altar as a symbolic offering.
Meaning
An obolus refers to a specific value of currency that was typically used in historical contexts, particularly in ancient Greece. It can also represent a small token or contribution.
Synonyms
  • coin
  • token