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noun

sixpence

SIHKS-puhns

Sixpence (noun) means a former British coin worth six pennies, equal to half a shilling. Example: “Her grandmother still had an old sixpence tucked in a drawer.”

noun
1
A former British coin worth six pennies, equal to half a shilling.
"Her grandmother still had an old sixpence tucked in a drawer."

How to use sixpence

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old British coin worth six old pennies, no longer in circulation.

UK vs US

A relic of pre-decimal British currency; unfamiliar to most Americans.

Word forms

sixpences plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her grandmother still had an old _____ tucked in a drawer.

Etymology

From "six" plus "pence."

sixpenny bit tanner lord tester tizzy hog pig sow's baby

Related words

Rhymes for sixpence

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Frequently asked questions

What does “sixpence” mean?

The word “sixpence” means a former British coin worth six pennies, equal to half a shilling. In plain terms, an old British coin worth six old pennies, no longer in circulation.

How do you pronounce “sixpence”?

“Sixpence” is pronounced SIHKS-puhns (/ˈsɪks.pəns/ in IPA).

How do you use “sixpence” in a sentence?

Here is “sixpence” used in a sentence: “Her grandmother still had an old sixpence tucked in a drawer.”

What is another word for “sixpence”?

Words with a similar meaning to “sixpence” include sixpenny bit, tanner, lord, tester, tizzy and hog.

What part of speech is “sixpence”?

“Sixpence” is a noun.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial