devaluation

noun

de·​val·​u·​a·​tion (ˌ)dē-ˌval-yə-ˈwā-shən How to pronounce devaluation (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If saving were the same as devaluation, there would be no savers. John Tamny, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025 Barkley called the devaluation of running backs a narrative that was designed to keep salaries down. Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 21 Aug. 2025 The country’s ongoing economic challenges, including currency devaluation and inflation, only exacerbate this burden. IEEE Spectrum, 20 Aug. 2025 Conveniently, this system would also make the United States the world’s economic center of gravity and prevent currency devaluations that could harm American exports. Wally Adeyemo, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for devaluation

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of devaluation was in 1914

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Cite this Entry

“Devaluation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/devaluation. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Legal Definition

devaluation

noun
de·​val·​u·​ation (ˌ)dē-ˌval-yə-ˈwā-shən How to pronounce devaluation (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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