Pronunciation: [tˈɛnpəns] (IPA) 
The word "tenpence" is a UK currency term that refers to ten pence, which is equivalent to one-tenth of one pound sterling. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is spelled as "/tɛn pɛns/". The "t" sound in "ten" is pronounced like the "t" in "tin," and the "e" sound in "ten" is pronounced like the "e" in "bed." The "p" sound in "pence" is pronounced like the "p" in "pie," and the "e" sound is again pronounced like the "e" in "bed."
Tenpence is a common noun that refers to a British coin representing a denomination worth ten pence. In the British monetary system, the currency is divided into pence, with one pound consisting of 100 pence. Tenpence is specifically used to describe the coin itself or the amount corresponding to ten pence in value.
The word "tenpence" primarily designates a circular, metal token issued by the British government and circulated as legal tender. The tenpence coin, commonly referred to as a "ten pence piece," typically possesses a diameter of 24.5 millimeters, with the coins minted of cupronickel. It features the image of the reigning monarch, such as Queen Elizabeth II, on one side, accompanied by the denomination of "10 pence." On the reverse side, various designs and motifs have been featured throughout different periods.
Moreover, on a broader scale, "tenpence" signifies an amount of ten pence in value. It quantifies a sum one would have to pay or receive, usually in monetary transactions. For example, if the price of a product is determined to be 30 pence, the customer would have to provide three tenpence coins. Similarly, if someone owes a debt of 20 pence, they would need to repay it with two tenpence coins. Therefore, "tenpence" encompasses the numerical equivalent of ten individual pence in both its tangible coin form and as a measure of value in financial dealings.
The word "tenpence" is a compound word consisting of "ten" and "pence".
The word "ten" comes from the Old English word "tien" which means the number ten. This can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "tehun".
"Pence" is a plural form of the word "penny", which originally referred to a small coin. The word "penny" derives from the Old English word "pening" or "penig", which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "panningaz".
Therefore, the etymology of "tenpence" can be traced back to Old English and Proto-Germanic roots, referring to the number ten and the plural form of a small coin.
