Dime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dime
[daɪm ]
Definitions
currency unit
A dime is a United States coin that is worth ten cents, or one-tenth of a dollar. It is the smallest coin currently in circulation in the U.S. in terms of physical size. The dime is silver-colored and features the profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse side. It was first minted in 1796 and has had various designs over the years. The term 'dime' is also used informally to refer to ten of anything, most commonly in reference to money.
Synonyms
10 cents, ten-cent coin.
Examples of usage
- I only have a dime left in my pocket.
- Can you give me a dime for the vending machine?
- The price of a candy bar is more than a dime nowadays.
informal speech
To 'dime' can also mean to inform or snitch on someone, particularly in a criminal context. This usage implies that one is telling authorities or figures of authority about someone's wrongdoing or illicit activities. The term may stem from the idea of giving up a 'dime' or a small amount of information, often viewed negatively.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He decided to dime on his accomplices to get a lighter sentence.
- You can't trust him; he'll dime you out in a heartbeat.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'dime'
The term 'dime' originates from the French word 'dîme,' which means 'tithe' or 'tenth part.' The word was first adopted into English in the early 19th century, coinciding with the introduction of the dime as a coin. The first U.S. dime was produced in 1796, under the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the U.S. dollar and its subdivisions. The design of the coin has changed multiple times throughout history, featuring various figures, including Lady Liberty and, later, Franklin D. Roosevelt. The nickname for the dime evolved, reflecting both its value and size, and has remained a colloquial term for a ten-cent piece ever since.