face value

noun

1

: the value indicated on the face (as of a postage stamp or a stock certificate)

2

: the apparent value or significance

if their remarks may be taken at face value

Examples of face value in a Sentence

We paid $100 for tickets that had a face value of $50.

Recent Examples on the Web

As with most of modern life, the practice of reselling tickets to sporting events or concerts above their face value to try to make a profit has evolved rapidly with technology. —Arpan Lobo, Freep.com, 8 Sep. 2025

In the same way that 16th century bankers and traders had an incentive to use coins (which all had the same face value) with some lower quality metal. —Mike O'Sullivan, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025

Even something simple at its face value — the new album cover image, for example — has such forethought and reasoning behind the choice. —H. Vanbiber, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2025

Companies that get cash back will only be able to claim 90% of the face value of the credit, and it will be spread over five years. —Gene Maddaus, Variety, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for face value

• eigenvalue
• undervalue

Kids Definition

face value

noun

1

: the value indicated on the face of something (as a coin, bill, bond, or insurance policy)

2

: the apparent worth or significance

can't take what he says at face value

Legal Definition

face value

noun

: the value indicated on the face of something (as a stock certificate)