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 fall in import demand, driven by inflation and currency devaluation, is evidence of a deeper economic crisis. — Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, Foreign Affairs, 8 Sep. 2026

Nigeria’s naira currency, which weakened sharply under Tinubu following devaluations, has appreciated 12% in the twelve months to June. — Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026

Of those programs, Flying Blue can offer outsized value with occasional sales, while Hyatt redemptions continue to offer a better deal than competing hotel programs even after recent devaluations. — Rob Pegoraro, PC Magazine, 27 Aug. 2026

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