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Kina: meaning, definitions and examples

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kina

 

[ ˈkiːnə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

currency, New Zealand

The term 'kina' refers to the currency of Papua New Guinea. Introduced in 1975, it is subdivided into 100 toea. The kina is used in various daily transactions and is an important part of the country's economy.

Synonyms

currency, money

Examples of usage

  • I exchanged my dollars for kina at the bank.
  • The price of the fish is 10 kina.
  • Tourists often usekina for shopping in Papua New Guinea.
Context #2 | Noun

currency, historical

Kina was originally derived from the local word for the shell money used by certain communities in Papua New Guinea. This historical context underpins the cultural significance of the currency.

Synonyms

shell money, traditional currency

Examples of usage

  • Historically, kina were once made from shells.
  • In ancient times, kina was a symbol of wealth.
  • Traditional kina were used in community transactions.

Word origin

The word 'kina' has its roots in the traditional shell money used in Papua New Guinea, where shells were commonly used as a form of currency long before the introduction of the modern kina. This traditional currency was not only a medium of exchange but also held cultural and historical significance for many communities in the region. The modern kina was officially introduced following the country's independence in 1975, replacing the Australian dollar as the legal tender. This transition marked a significant step in the nation's economic development. The word 'kina' itself is believed to come from the local language, signifying its deep connection with both the physical and cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea. The currency and the term have thus evolved, reflecting the ongoing changes in the socio-economic landscape of the country.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,838, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.