The spelling of "double eagle" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is pronounced as /ˈdʌbəl ˈiːɡəl/. The first syllable "dub" is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ʌ/, followed by the consonant blend /bl/. The second syllable "le" is pronounced with the long vowel sound /iː/ and the final syllable "gal" is pronounced with the unstressed vowel sound /əl/. Overall, the IPA transcription helps to clarify the correct pronunciation and spelling of "double eagle".
A "double eagle" primarily refers to a popular coin denomination in the United States, but it can also have other meanings in different contexts. As a numismatic term, a double eagle can be defined as a gold coin with a face value of $20. The term originated in the 1840s when the U.S. government introduced this new denomination in response to the California Gold Rush. These coins were minted in two varieties: the Liberty Head double eagle (minted from 1849 to 1907) and the Saint-Gaudens double eagle (minted from 1907 to 1933). The latter is considered amongst the most beautiful coins ever produced.
In a broader sense, the term "double eagle" can also refer to a score of three-under-par on any given hole in golf. Achieving a double eagle is exceptionally rare, as it requires holing the ball in just two shots on a par-five hole. This feat is more commonly referred to as an "albatross" outside of the United States.
Furthermore, "double eagle" can be used metaphorically to describe a person who has achieved great success in two particular fields or areas. For example, a "double eagle" could refer to an individual who has excelled both in academics and athletics, showcasing an exceptional level of talent or accomplishment in multiple domains.
Overall, the term "double eagle" has distinct meanings depending on the context, describing a coin denomination, a remarkable score in golf, or a person who has excelled in two distinct areas.
The term "double eagle" originated from the combination of two different concepts: the eagle and the denomination "double".
The word "eagle" in this context refers to the monetary unit used in the United States for gold coins. It was inspired by the national bird of the United States, the bald eagle, which is often associated with strength and freedom.
The word "double" signifies the denomination of a coin worth twice the value of a regular eagle coin. In this case, a regular eagle coin had a face value of $10, so the double eagle had a face value of $20.
The term "double eagle" was officially adopted by the United States Mint in the late 19th century when it introduced the $20 gold coin. This gold coin featured the image of a bald eagle on one side and the profile of various presidents or prominent figures on the other.