How Do You Spell SIXPENCE?

Pronunciation: [sˈɪkspəns] (IPA)

The word "sixpence" is often spelled with an "x", but it's actually pronounced with a "ks" sound. The correct phonetic transcription is /sɪkspəns/. This word originated in England as a coin worth six pennies in pre-decimal currency. It's commonly used in phrases like "a penny for your thoughts, a sixpence for your song". Despite its antiquity, the spelling of "sixpence" remains consistent, providing a glimpse into the historical evolution of English words and their modern usage.

SIXPENCE Meaning and Definition

1. A sixpence is a noun that refers to a former British silver coin of a particular denomination. Specifically, it was worth six pennies or half a shilling, and it was in circulation from the 16th century until the 20th century. The design of the sixpence varied throughout its history. Initially, it featured a portrait of the reigning monarch on one side and a coat of arms or crest on the other. Later versions incorporated various symbols, such as a rose, a crossed keys motif, or a crowned shield. The size and composition of the coin also changed over time to accommodate economic fluctuations and minting techniques.

   Aside from its monetary value, the sixpence holds cultural significance, often being associated with various customs and traditions. For instance, it has been traditionally given as a good luck token at weddings, thought to bring prosperity and happiness to the newlyweds. Additionally, the sixpence holds literary and rhythmic importance in the popular nursery rhyme "Sing a Song of Sixpence" and was occasionally referenced in literature, including works by Charles Dickens and Jane Austen.

   In modern times, the sixpence is merely a historical artifact and no longer a legal form of currency in the United Kingdom. It serves primarily as a nostalgic reminder of the country's past monetary system and holds sentimental value for collectors and enthusiasts.

2. An Eng. silver coin, in value six pennies; half a shilling.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SIXPENCE

• sespence
• suspence
• sxpense
• saspence
• fivpence
• sixoence
• six0ence
• sixpencse
• sixence
• sixpnce
• sixxence
• sixqence
• sixpenn
• sixpenney
• sixpennne
• Sixpice

Etymology of SIXPENCE

The word "sixpence" has its origin in Old English and Middle English. It is a combination of two words: "six" (meaning the number 6) and "pence" (referring to a unit of currency). "Six" comes from the Old English word "siex", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sehs". "Pence" comes from the Old English word "pening", which derived from the West Germanic word "panninga". Over time, these two words were combined to form "sixpence", which was a silver coin worth six pence in the British currency system.

Similar spelling word for SIXPENCE

• sixpenny.

Plural form of SIXPENCE is SIXPENCE OR SIXPENCES