Definition

A place where stocks and shares are bought and sold, particularly in Europe.

Example

Investors gathered at the bourse to trade shares of various companies.

Conversation

Have you ever been to the bourse in Paris?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really interesting.

I went last summer, and the atmosphere at the bourse was amazing.

That sounds great! I should definitely check it out next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bourse originates from the Old French word *bourse*, meaning purse or wallet, which is derived from the Latin *bursa*, meaning purse. The term is historically associated with the Bruges Bourse, where merchants would gather to conduct trade, thus evolving to refer to a stock exchange or market.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'purse' ('bursa') where merchants gather to exchange goods and money — that's how 'bourse' came to mean a market or stock exchange.

Visually Confused Words