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fanam

noun
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fa·​nam | \ fəˈnäm \
plural -s

Definition of fanam

1a : a small gold or silver coin formerly in widespread use in southern India
b : a silver coin of Travancore worth ¹/₈ of a rupee issued up until Indian independence in 1947
2 : a unit of value corresponding to a fanam

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History and Etymology for fanam

probably modification of Tamil panam, probably from Sanskrit paṇa bet, reward, wealth

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Cite this Entry

“Fanam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fanam. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021.

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