PIGGYBANK Meaning and
Definition
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A piggybank, also known as a piggy bank, is a small container, typically shaped like a pig, which is used to collect and store small amounts of money, usually in the form of coins. It serves as a popular tool, especially among children, to encourage savings by providing a designated place to accumulate funds.
Traditionally made of ceramic or porcelain, a piggybank is designed with a narrow slot on the top through which coins can be inserted. It is deliberately created with no easy access points to retrieve the money, promoting the notion of long-term saving and discouraging impulsive spending. Piggybanks are often brightly colored or decorated, appealing to children and making the process of saving more enjoyable.
The term "piggybank" is derived from the historical practice of using actual pig-shaped containers, which were originally made of clay. Over time, piggybanks have evolved and can now be found in various materials and designs, including plastic, metals, and even digital versions. Many modern piggybanks feature easily removable tops or rubber stoppers at the base to allow for convenient access to the saved money.
Beyond its literal definition, the term "piggybank" is also used metaphorically to describe any safekeeping location or account where funds are accumulated for a specific purpose. It implies a systematic approach to saving, regardless of the container or medium used to store the money.
Etymology of PIGGYBANK
The word "piggybank" is a compound word formed by the combination of "piggy" and "bank". The term "piggy" is derived from the Old English word "pigge", which refers to a young pig or a piglet. "Bank" comes from the Old Italian word "banco", which means a bench or a counter. In the context of "piggybank", "bank" refers to a place where money is stored. The use of the word "piggy" in "piggybank" may stem from the practice of using a pig-shaped container to hold and save money. Over time, this term has become widely associated with the notion of a child's savings container shaped like a pig.
