besa
noun
be·sa
\ˈbā-sə\
Definition of besa
bese
\ˈbā-(ˌ)sā\ orbesas
1a : a coin issued from 1909 to 1921 for use in Italian Somaliland where it was worth 1⁄100 of a rupia b : a corresponding unit of value the circulation of 2-besa and 4-besa coins
2a : a copper coin formerly used in Ethiopia where it was worth 1⁄100 of a talari b : a corresponding unit of value a 1⁄2-besa coin was struck
From the M-W Editors
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of besa
Italian
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up besa? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!