exchange

²exchange

verb

ex·changedex·chang·ing

Definition of EXCHANGE

transitive verb

1

a : to part with, give, or transfer in consideration of something received as an equivalent b : to have replaced by other merchandise <exchanged the shirt for one in a larger size>

2

: to part with for a substitute <exchanging future security for immediate pleasure>

3

: to give and receive reciprocally <exchange gifts>

intransitive verb

1

: to pass or become received in exchange

2

: to engage in an exchange

— ex·change·abil·i·ty \iks-ˌchān-jə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— ex·change·able \iks-ˈchān-jə-bəl\ adjective

— ex·chang·er \iks-ˈchān-jər, eks-ˌ\ noun

Examples of EXCHANGE

1. We exchanged addresses and promised we'd write each other often.
2. These coupons can be exchanged for food.
3. I'd like to exchange this sweater for a smaller one.

First Known Use of EXCHANGE

15th century

Related to EXCHANGE

Synonyms: commute, change, shift, substitute, swap, switch, trade

Related Words: interchange; displace, replace, supersede; cede, hand over, surrender, yield; reciprocate

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