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bawbee

Elementary (A2)

IPA: //bɔːˈbiː//

KK: /bɔːˈbiː/

noun
Definition

A small coin that is worth half a penny, often used in Scotland.


Example

He found an old bawbee while cleaning the attic.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that a bawbee used to be worth so little?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read that it was like a halfpenny in Scotland.
Sloth A
It's funny how something like a bawbee could actually have been used for buying things.
Sloth B
I guess every little coin counts when you're on a tight budget!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
penny
coin
farthing
Antonyms
dollar
pound
cent
Root Explanation

Bawbee originates from the Scots word 'bawbee', which refers to a small coin, particularly a halfpenny. The term is believed to derive from the Dutch 'bood', meaning a small coin or money. It reflects the historical use of small denominations in trade and everyday transactions.

Memory Tip

Think of a small coin or money when you hear 'bawbee', as it directly refers to a small denomination in Scots.

Visually Confused Words
babe
awee
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