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

Such decisions reinforce the systemic devaluation of Palestinian lives in our media. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 12 May 2025

Though minor league relative to Bush on the devaluation (inflation) front, since the beginning of his second term gold is already up 23 percent against the dollar. —John Tamny, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025

So the Reagan administration used diplomacy — and the implicit threat of overwhelming military and political power — to persuade its allies to participate in the devaluation of the dollar. —Jeff Sommer, New York Times, 2 May 2025

As the dollar declines, investors are likely to consider hedging their currency exposure, which could further exacerbate the devaluation. —Ganesh Rao, CNBC, 27 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing devaluation

• pre-devaluation

Rhymes for devaluation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

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