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

Rather than building toward a meaningful reward, consumers shift to short-term behavior which includes redeeming for low value items, disengaging, or spreading loyalty across multiple programs to hedge against future devaluation. —Gary Drenik, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Negative changes All of the card’s devaluations are immediately effective for anyone who applies on or after June 15, 2026. —Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 10 June 2026

Economic hardship and devaluations of the rial were key factors behind major anti-government protests at the start of the year. —CBS News, 28 Apr. 2026

All jobs have a performative aspect to them, but when people engage in make-believe in exchange for money, there’s often a devaluation of that work. —Erin Qualey, Vulture, 15 Apr. 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