bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən  -ˌyän 

1

a

: gold or silver considered as so much metal

the bullion contained in a silver dollar

specifically : uncoined gold or silver in bars or ingots

over a million dollars in gold bullion

b

: metal in the mass

lead bullion

2

clothing : lace, braid, or fringe of gold or silver threads

the bullion on his uniform

Examples of bullion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Given how quickly silver's price trajectory can shift, its price volatility has become an important factor to weigh, not just for silver bullion investors, but also for those eyeing silver mining stocks, which are essentially shares of precious metal mining and production companies. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 17 Feb. 2026

Buying gold bullion from retailers is one way to get in on the action. —Liz Knueven, CNBC, 14 Feb. 2026

Physical gold options The simplest way to buy physical gold coins and bars on a budget is by making small, fractional purchases like 1-gram or 1/10-ounce bars or coins, like bullion, valued for its precious metal content, or collectible coins, which are historic. —Nick Perry, USA Today, 9 Feb. 2026

Nearly half of all gold in the world, however, is used for jewellery, which on average generates 300% more value than bullion. —Bright Simons, semafor.com, 9 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French billion, bullion melting house, bullion, probably blend of Middle French bille ingot, piece of money (from Old French, log) and Anglo-French *bulliun, buillun cauldron, from Old French boillon froth on boiling liquid, broth — more at billet, bouillon

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən 

: gold or silver especially in bars or blocks