Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

shilling

noun

/ˈʃɪl.ɪŋ/

Definition

A former monetary unit used in Britain and other countries, equal to one twentieth of a pound.

Examples

Before decimalization, a shilling was often referred to as a ‘bob’ in informal contexts.
Prices were often listed in shillings and pence, making calculations a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with the system.

Meaning

In historical contexts, the shilling was a coin used in various countries, notably in the UK, to represent a specific amount of currency. It has since been replaced by decimal currencies.