munt: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowHistorical / Regional / Offensive Slang
Quick answer
What does “munt” mean?
A coin of minimal value, specifically a copper coin used in Afghanistan.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A coin of minimal value, specifically a copper coin used in Afghanistan.
A historical or foreign coin of little worth; by extension, a small, worthless amount of money. In South African English slang (offensive), a derogatory term for a Black person.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British historical context, it may be known to numismatists or historians. In American English, the word is virtually unknown except in highly specialised contexts. The offensive South African usage is recognised in both but is associated primarily with South Africa.
Connotations
Neutral/obscure in its historical coin sense; deeply offensive and racist in its South African slang sense.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties; practically non-existent in general usage.
Grammar
How to Use “munt” in a Sentence
a + ADJ + muntworth + a + muntVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Possibly in historical or numismatic papers discussing Afghan currency.
Everyday
Not used in standard everyday English.
Technical
Numismatics (coin collecting).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “munt”
- Using 'munt' as a general word for coin.
- Unawareness of the highly offensive secondary meaning.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an extremely rare word. Its primary meaning is historical, referring to a specific Afghan coin.
It is not recommended. The word is obsolete in this sense and unknown to most speakers. Words like 'penny' or 'cent' are far more common and understood.
Yes. In South African English, it is a deeply offensive and racist slur. This usage must be strictly avoided.
It is pronounced /mʌnt/, rhyming with 'hunt'.
A coin of minimal value, specifically a copper coin used in Afghanistan.
Munt is usually historical / regional / offensive slang in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “not worth a munt”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'mount' of coins; a 'munt' is just one small, low-value coin at the bottom of the pile.
Conceptual Metaphor
MONEY IS VALUE; a 'munt' conceptualises minimal or negligible value.
Practice
Quiz
In which context might you legitimately encounter the word 'munt'?