Definition

A type of currency that was used in Italy, San Marino, and Vatican City before the euro was introduced, and also used in Malta and Israel in the past.

Example

When I traveled to Italy, I exchanged my dollars for lira to buy souvenirs.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the old lira currency from Italy?

Yeah, I think it was used before they switched to the euro.

Exactly! I wonder how people felt about the change from lira to euro.

It must have been a big adjustment for everyone, especially with the prices.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'lira' originates from Italian, meaning a unit of currency. It was historically used in various forms across different regions, particularly in Italy, and is derived from the Latin word 'libra', which means a pound or balance, referring to weight and value.

Memory Tip

Think of the Italian word for currency, 'lira', which connects to the Latin 'libra' meaning weight or balance, helping you remember that 'lira' refers to a unit of currency.

Visually Confused Words