Quid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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quid

[kwษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

British slang

A pound sterling.

Synonyms

British currency, pound, sterling.

Examples of usage

  • How much is a quid?
  • He owes me five quid.
Context #2 | Noun

Informal

A piece of something, especially tobacco.

Synonyms

chunk, piece, portion.

Examples of usage

  • He took out a quid and started chewing on it.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • Quid is an essential part of British slang, often used in popular media, songs, and literature to denote money.
  • Many famous British comedians use 'quid' in their routines, making it a familiar term in everyday language.
  • In films and shows, the character saying 'quid' often portrays a humorous or casual attitude towards money.

Economics

  • 'Quid' frequently appears in economic discussions about budgeting and spending in the UK.
  • Understanding slang like 'quid' is important for grasping British financial contexts, especially for travelers.
  • While 'quid' refers to pounds, it signifies a broader cultural understanding of informal finance, like tipping.

Literature

  • British authors often sprinkle the term 'quid' in dialogues to provide authenticity to charactersโ€™ voices.
  • Classic novels often depict societal class by describing how characters perceive and use quids.
  • In contemporary literature, the use of 'quid' can denote a character's familiarity with London's culture.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows like 'The Office' (UK) and various British sitcoms frequently feature 'quid' in their scripts.
  • The word gained traction within gaming, with characters referencing 'quid' in relation to virtual economies.
  • Music artists from the UK often mention quid in songs to reflect relatable life experiences and issues.

Origin of 'quid'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'quid' is thought to have originated from the Latin phrase 'quid pro quo', meaning 'something for something'.
  • In the 19th century, it became a colloquial term used by the British to refer to money, especially pounds.
  • It may also relate to 'quid', the old slang for a chew of tobacco, as both represent something of value.

The word 'quid' originated in the late 17th century from Latin 'quid', meaning 'what'. It was originally used in English as a term for something that is equal in value or worth, eventually becoming associated with the British pound sterling. The slang usage of 'quid' to refer to a pound sterling developed in the 19th century, and it is still widely used in British English today.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,864, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.