Correct spelling for the English word "qursh" is [kwəɹˈəʃ], [kwəɹˈəʃ], [k_w_ə_ɹ_ˈə_ʃ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Qursh refers to a monetary unit that was in circulation in the Arab region during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term itself originates from the Ottoman Empire, particularly from the Turkish language, where it is known as "kuruş." Qursh is commonly regarded as a small denomination of currency, valued at a fraction of the principal unit.
In the Ottoman Empire, the qursh was equivalent to one twenty-fourth of a Turkish lira. This division made it a valuable coin in day-to-day transactions. Its usage extended beyond the borders of the empire, as many Arab economies and regions adopted the qursh as a recognized currency unit. Consequently, the term qursh became a frequently employed name for small denominations of currency in various Arab nations.
The qursh was typically made from base metals, such as copper or bronze. It often featured Arabic calligraphy and decorative patterns, displaying the issuing authority or ruler's name. Throughout history, the design and appearance of the qursh underwent changes to reflect the political and cultural shifts in the region.
Over time, socio-political changes and the transition to modern economies led to the replacement of the qursh with decimalized currencies. Today, the qursh is no longer in circulation, but it remains a significant part of the region's monetary history and heritage.
The word "qursh" is derived from the Arabic term "qirsh" (قرش), which originally referred to a silver coin. The term can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire, where the Roman currency was known as "carş" in Greek. The Arab conquerors adopted this term and incorporated it into their own currency system. Over time, the term "qirsh" evolved to refer to different denominations of currency in various Arab countries. In some regions, "qursh" is still used today to refer to a unit of currency.