bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən How to pronounce bullion (audio) -ˌyän How to pronounce bullion (audio)
1
a
: gold or silver considered as so much metal
the bullion contained in a silver dollar
specifically : uncoined gold or silver in bars or ingots
over a million dollars in gold bullion
b
: metal in the mass
lead bullion
2
clothing : lace, braid, or fringe of gold or silver threads
the bullion on his uniform

Examples of bullion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Those starting out with smaller investment limits might consider coins or small bullions, while those with higher balances to transfer might consider using a gold IRA. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 7 July 2026 Beyond traditional bullion products, the company offers recurring purchase plans, a buyback program, lending, and a wide selection of precious metals and specialty products. — Deane Biermeier, USA Today, 8 July 2026 Another policy change, overtly focused on increasing revenue in the local mining sector when commodity prices rise, was the introduction of a new sliding scale gold royalty system that links state revenues to rising bullion prices. — Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 8 July 2026 Farage has many sources of income other than a lawmaker’s salary, including hawking gold bullion, hosting a TV current affairs show, public speaking and recording personal video messages on the Cameo platform. — ABC News, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for bullion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French billion, bullion melting house, bullion, probably blend of Middle French bille ingot, piece of money (from Old French, log) and Anglo-French *bulliun, buillun cauldron, from Old French boillon froth on boiling liquid, broth — more at billet, bouillon

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of bullion was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

bulling heifer
bullion
bullion balance
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Cite this Entry

“Bullion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bullion. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bullion

noun
bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən How to pronounce bullion (audio)
: gold or silver especially in bars or blocks

More from Merriam-Webster on bullion

Nglish: Translation of bullion for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bullion

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