Dinar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dinar
[dɪˈnɑːr ]
Definition
currency unit
The dinar is a currency unit used in several countries, most notably in the Middle East and North Africa. It's derived from the Roman denarius, and its value is typically tied to the gold standard or other stable currencies. Different nations have their own dinar, including the Jordanian dinar, Kuwaiti dinar, and Iraqi dinar, each with varying values and historical significance. The dinar is often subdivided into smaller units, such as fils.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I exchanged my dollars for dinars before traveling to Jordan.
- The price of the hotel was 100 dinars per night.
- Inflation has affected the value of the Iraqi dinar significantly.
- The Kuwaiti dinar is considered one of the strongest currencies in the world.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- The dinar has been used in various forms since at least the 7th century, playing a crucial role in trade.
- It became a standard currency across many Islamic countries after the Islamic conquests, aiding economic unity.
- Many countries that use the dinar have a rich history of trade and commerce, linking them to the Silk Road.
Modern Usage
- Currently, several countries issue their own dinars, including Jordan, Kuwait, and Iraq, each with unique designs and values.
- The Kuwaiti dinar is often considered one of the strongest currencies in the world in terms of exchange rate.
- In daily life, people use dinars for everything from buying groceries to paying for services.
Cultural References
- The dinar appears in various forms of Middle Eastern art and literature, symbolizing wealth and trade.
- In many stories and movies set in the Arab world, protagonists are often seen negotiating in dinars, highlighting its importance in transactions.
- Historically, the dinar is featured in tales from 'One Thousand and One Nights', emphasizing its connection to a flourishing economy.
Global Impact
- Countries using the dinar have often been influenced by oil wealth, dramatically affecting their economies.
- International trade agreements and markets are frequently influenced by the stability and strength of the dinar.
- The dinar, like other currencies, is affected by global economic trends, making its value fluctuate based on world events.
Origin of 'dinar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dinar' comes from the Latin 'denarius', an ancient Roman coin.
- Initially, the dinar was equivalent to a specific weight of gold or silver, emphasizing its value.
- Throughout history, different regions adapted the term to fit their own currencies and cultures.
The term 'dinar' traces its origins back to the Roman denarius, a silver coin that was widely used in the Roman Empire. The name 'dinar' itself comes from the Arabic 'dīnār', which was derived from the late Latin term 'denarius'. Historically, the use of the dinar transitioned into the Islamic world as a significant currency. The first gold dinar was minted by the caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan in the year 696 AD, following the model of the Byzantine solidus. Over the centuries, the dinar became a prevalent form of currency in various Islamic states and empires, signaling its ongoing economic significance. Today, many countries in the Arab world, including Jordan, Kuwait, and Algeria, have adopted the dinar as their official currency, reflecting both historical roots and contemporary economic needs.