dialectal, chiefly British
: pantry

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French espence, spence, from Medieval Latin expensa victuals, from Late Latin, outlay, compulsory supply of food — more at expense entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spence was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near spence

Cite this Entry

“Spence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spence. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Biographical Definition

Spence

biographical name

A(ndrew) Michael 1943–     American economist

More from Merriam-Webster on spence

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