greenback

noun

green·​back ˈgrēn-ˌbak How to pronounce greenback (audio)
Synonyms of greenbacknext
: a legal-tender note issued by the U.S. government

Synonyms of greenback

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Examples of greenback in a Sentence

she threw a few greenbacks on the counter to pay for the drinks
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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.
And, of course, there is the $60 million elephant in the room (give or take a few greenbacks). — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 5 June 2026 The greenback has done better against other currencies such as the euro and the yen. — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 As of July 3, the yen was hovering around the 162 level against the greenback. — Lim Hui Jie,lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 3 July 2026 Leveraged funds on Wednesday began buying dollar call options that gain in value if the greenback strengthens, according to traders. — David Finnerty, Bloomberg, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for greenback

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of greenback was in 1862

Rhymes for greenback

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Browse Nearby Words

Greenaway
greenback
green-backed goldfinch
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

greenback

noun
green·​back ˈgrēn-ˌbak How to pronounce greenback (audio)
: a piece of U.S. paper money
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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