face value

noun

Synonyms of face valuenext
1
: the value indicated on the face (as of a postage stamp or a stock certificate)
2
: the apparent value or significance
if their remarks may be taken at face value

Examples of face value in a Sentence

We paid $100 for tickets that had a face value of $50.
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.
At face value, this might all seem quite silly. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 13 June 2026 Only a few tickets remain at face value for the knockout games in Kansas City. — Kellis Robinett, Kansas City Star, 9 June 2026 The face value of premium tickets to the World Cup final that were released in May. — Brett Knight, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Athlete Creditor reports having bought over 5,100 claims with a face value exceeding $330 million. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for face value

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of face value was in 1851

Rhymes for face value

See All Rhymes for face value

Browse Nearby Words

face validity
face value
face wall
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Face value.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/face%20value. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

face value

noun
1
: the value indicated on the face of something (as a coin, bill, bond, or insurance policy)
2
: the apparent worth or significance
can't take what he says at face value

Legal Definition

face value

noun
: the value indicated on the face of something (as a stock certificate)

More from Merriam-Webster on face value

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for face value

Nglish: Translation of face value for Spanish Speakers

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