penny
UK[ˈpeni]US[ˈpeni]
n
a small bronze coin and monetary unit of the united kingdom, equal to one hundredth of a pound.
n
a small unit of currency in various countries, especially a cent in the united states and canada.
Etymology
the word "penny" has a long history in the english language, descending directly from the old english "penig". this term is shared among other germanic languages, pointing to a common proto-germanic ancestor, likely "panningaz". the ultimate origin of this proto-germanic word is obscure, though one theory connects it to a root meaning "pawn" or "pledge", suggesting the coin's role in transactions and securing debts. another hypothesis links it to a word for "pan", perhaps describing the broad, flat shape of early coins. from its origins as a specific silver coin in anglo-saxon england, the term evolved generically to denote a small unit of currency, a meaning preserved in the modern british penny and the colloquial use for a cent.
Analysis
the word "penny" is a simplex word. it is a loanword from old english "pening" or "penig", of germanic origin, related to dutch "penning" and german "pfennig". its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be related to a base meaning "pawn" or "pledge", or possibly to a word meaning "pan", from the shape of early coins.
Examples
he fished a penny out of his pocket to complete the payment.
the old saying "a penny for your thoughts" is an invitation to share what you are thinking.
in the u.s., prices are often listed as $4.99, playing on the psychological effect of being just one penny short of five dollars.