Hryvna is a Ukrainian monetary unit that has a unique spelling. The word is pronounced as [ˈɦrɪu̯nɑ], where the first syllable has an unvoiced h and an r sound, followed by a short i vowel, and then the combination of the u and n sounds. The second syllable has an open a vowel sound. The spelling of the word hryvna is important as it distinguishes it from other currency names and reflects the phonetic nuances of the Ukrainian language.
Hryvna is the official currency of Ukraine, abbreviated as UAH (Ukrainian Hryvnia). It is a noun that refers to the monetary unit used for the exchange of goods, services, and financial transactions within the country. The word "hryvna" is derived from the ancient Slavic term for "a necklace."
As a currency, the hryvna is subdivided into 100 smaller units known as kopecks. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 kopecks, while banknotes come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 hryvnas. The National Bank of Ukraine is responsible for the issuance and management of the hryvna.
The hryvna has a floating exchange rate, meaning its value fluctuates based on the foreign exchange market. It is widely accepted as legal tender throughout Ukraine for both domestic and international transactions, although the use of cash has been decreasing in recent years with the rise of digital payment methods.
The hryvna has been in circulation since 1996, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and Ukraine's independence. It replaced the previous currency, the karbovanets, due to significant economic and political changes during that period.
Overall, the hryvna plays a vital role in Ukraine's economy, facilitating trade, commerce, and financial activities within the country.
The word "hryvna" is derived from the Old Slavic word "griva", which means "mane" or "hair". In ancient times, hryvna referred to a necklace made of precious metals, usually in the form of animals' manes or hair. It was used as a currency by several Eastern Slavic tribes. Over time, the term "hryvna" became associated with a unit of currency in the region, and today it is the official currency of Ukraine.