FARTHING Meaning and
Definition
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A farthing is a historical British coin that was in circulation from the 13th to the 20th centuries. It was the smallest unit of currency, representing one-fourth of a penny or 1/960th of a pound sterling. The term "farthing" was derived from the Old English word "feorðing," which means "quarter." Initially made of silver, the farthing's size and composition evolved throughout the years.
In terms of physical appearance, the farthing featured various designs and inscriptions depending on the ruler and time period. The front of the coin typically displayed the reigning monarch's portrait, while the back showcased intricate patterns, symbols, or the denomination itself.
During its existence, the farthing held very little value and was often used to purchase small items or as change in daily transactions. However, due to inflation over time, its purchasing power significantly diminished, leading to its discontinuation in 1960. Nonetheless, the farthing remains a significant artifact, representing a bygone era of British currency.
Today, the term "farthing" is occasionally used metaphorically in English language, symbolizing an insignificant amount or value. It conveys a notion of something minuscule, small, or of little importance.
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A small copper coin, the fourth part of a penny.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for FARTHING *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for FARTHING
Etymology of FARTHING
The word farthing has its origins in Old English, where it was known as feorðing or feorðung. It is derived from the Old English word feortha, meaning fourth. The word feorðing referred to a quarter, specifically a fourth part of a penny. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the word evolved, leading to the modern English term farthing.
Idioms with the word FARTHING
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be not worth a brass farthing
The idiom "be not worth a brass farthing" means that something or someone is of very little or no value at all. It implies that the thing or person mentioned is considered worthless or insignificant. The phrase "brass farthing" refers to a small, low-value coin made of brass that was no longer in general use after the 18th century. Thus, the idiom suggests that whatever it is referring to is utterly worthless.
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a brass farthing
The idiom "a brass farthing" refers to something that is completely worthless or holds no value. It originated from the notion of a farthing, which was a British coin worth a quarter of an old penny. The term "brass" in this idiom emphasizes that the farthing is not even made of valuable metal, as brass is a cheap alloy.
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brass farthing
The idiom "brass farthing" refers to a small or insignificant amount of money. It is used to describe a situation or scenario where little, if any, financial contribution or value is involved.
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not a brass farthing
The idiom "not a brass farthing" means to have no money at all or to possess nothing of value. It conveys a state of utter poverty or financial destitution. In historical terms, a "brass farthing" refers to a small British coin made of brass or copper with minimal value, so if someone has "not a brass farthing," it implies their complete lack of funds or assets.
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not worth a brass farthing
The idiom "not worth a brass farthing" is used to describe something or someone of extremely little or no value or importance. The phrase originates from the combination of "brass," which refers to a low-value, inexpensive metal, and "farthing," which was a British coin of the smallest denomination. Therefore, it implies that the subject being referred to is worth absolutely no monetary value and is considered worthless or insignificant.
Similar spelling words for FARTHING
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