devaluation

noun

de·​val·​u·​a·​tion (ˌ)dē-ˌval-yə-ˈwā-shən 

-yü-ˈā-

1

: an official reduction in the exchange value of a currency by a lowering of its gold equivalency or its value relative to another currency

2

: a lessening especially of status or stature : decline

Examples of devaluation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The rial’s devaluation will have the effect of making imports more expensive and Iranian exports cheaper. — Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026

Higher yields generally challenge stocks, but strong nominal GDP growth and corporate profits can mitigate this, offering a hedge against potential currency devaluation. — Bill Stone, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

That was accompanied by a jump in precious metal prices, as investors anticipate further dollar devaluation. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026

After the pandemic, sharp currency devaluations, high inflation, rising global interest rates, and heavier debt burdens made African assets even less attractive than usual. — Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing devaluation

• pre-devaluation

Rhymes for devaluation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Legal Definition

devaluation

noun

de·​val·​u·​ation (ˌ)dē-ˌval-yə-ˈwā-shən 

1

: an official reduction in the exchange value of a currency by a lowering of its gold equivalency or its value relative to another currency

2

: a lessening of the value of something (as an asset)

portfolio devaluation