The word "giro card" is a common financial term used in Europe to refer to a debit card. The spelling of this word is derived from Italian and pronounced as [ˈdʒiːrəʊ kɑːd]. The first part of the word, "giro," comes from the Italian word "giroconto" meaning "current account." The second part, "card," is a common English word used to refer to a plastic payment card. Together, "giro card" represents a bank card linked to a current account for making purchases and withdrawals.
A Giro card, also known as a Girocard or EC card (German abbreviation for "electronic cash"), is a plastic payment card issued by banks in Germany and Austria. It functions as a debit card tied to the cardholder's current or checking account, allowing them to make transactions directly from their bank account without the need to carry cash.
The Giro card is widely accepted at various retail locations, including supermarkets, restaurants, and other establishments that offer payment options. When making a purchase, the cardholder swipes the Giro card through a card terminal or inserts it into the chip and pin terminal. The transaction process is initiated by entering the personal identification number (PIN) assigned to the respective Giro card.
With a Giro card, users can access their account for multiple purposes, such as withdrawing cash from ATMs, checking their account balance, transferring funds, and making online purchases. The card is equipped with an embedded chip that enhances security while conducting transactions in person or over the internet.
While primarily used within Germany and Austria, Giro cards are sometimes accepted in neighboring countries and worldwide at establishments affiliated with the Maestro network. It offers convenience and ease of use, serving as an alternative to carrying physical cash and providing a secure mode of payment for individuals and businesses alike.
The term "giro card" does not have a distinct etymology since it is a compound word derived from two separate entities: "giro" and "card".
1. Giro: The word "giro" has its origins in Italian, where it means "circulation" or "cycle". From Italian, it spread to various languages, including English, where it is used to refer to a system of transferring money between banks, businesses, or individuals. The word has been used since the early 17th century and is derived from the Latin word "gyrus", meaning "circular path" or "circle".
2. Card: The term "card" originates from the Old French word "carte" or Latin "charta", both meaning "paper" or "leaflet".